Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Genya doesn’t want to be here. It’s hot, he’s sweaty, and would rather be home in the AC watching TV or practicing his guitar. Anywhere but here. But break is over, and now he’s back in hell…school.

Genya walks down the sidewalk, beaten up backpack hanging off one shoulder, his back hunched over, barely awake. Barely alive. Genya is not and will never be a morning person. And most people in school knew to stay as far away from him as possible in the morning.

He finally makes it into the school yard making a b-line for his first class. He just wants to make it to his desk to sleep before class starts. He doesn’t make it very far before another student makes their way to him, joining him on his walk.

“Good morning, Genya! How was your break?” Tanjiro meets Genya’s long strides, not faltering for a second.

“Mmmm. What are you doing here so early?” His response is gruff, bordering on rude. Any other person would take it as such. But Genya has known Tanjiro since grade four. The boy knows Genya’s temperament and takes everything in stride.

Tanjiro begins to answer as he rummages through his backpack, not paying any attention to the people walking by him. Genya on the other hand is, grabbing the boy by the shoulders and weaving him through the steady flow of students.

“Oh, well my cousin’s first day is today, and Nezuko and I said we’d meet him before class to show him around. But I forgot to turn in an assignment from before break, so I left early to go do that. Here!”

Tanjiro steps stop, turning to Genya and presenting him with a small bag. Genya looks down at the item wrapped in white plastic with black thread tied in a bow.

“What is it?” Genya grabs the item, giving it a sniff before looking back at Tanjiro.

“Its ohagi! My aunt made some for my cousin to pass out on his first day of school. I think she thinks he’s still five or something.” Tanjiro laughs. “But he isn’t one to really do stuff like that, so he basically gave all the ohagi to me and Nezuko to eat. But it’s a lot so I’m giving one to everyone. Inosuke took five if you want more.”

Genya rolls his eyes at Tanjiro’s statement. “Figures. If you don’t mind, can I take one more? Aniki loves ohagi.”

“Of course!” Tanjiro goes back to digging deep in his bag. Genya waits, watching Tanjiro dig and dig and dig some more. “Dude! What do you have in there that you can’t find one?” Genya yells at him but then laughs. He can never be mad or annoyed with Tanjiro. He’s a dork.

“Got it!” Tanjiro presents another ohagi which Genya quickly grabs to place in his own bag.

Suddenly, Tanjiro snickers, voice going low “It feels like were doing a drug deal hehehe” And that right there is what reminds Genya…Yup, he’s weird. And that’s why they’re friends.

Genya shakes his head, a small smile appearing, “You’re an idiot.” Genya then steers Tanjiro in the direction of the classroom he’s headed to. “Let’s go”

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After Tanjiro’s ohagi giveaway and turning in his class assignment, both boys proceeded to their respected classrooms. Genya, being a year older, didn’t share a classroom with his friends aside from Zenitsu. The boy wasn’t too bad. But he assumes that that mindset is because Zenitsu would rather die than piss Genya off. He’s an idiot. Genya would never do anything to hurt him. If anything, Genya’s saved him more than once from someone’s fist. Mainly Inosuke’s.

Genya walks into his classroom, seeing Zenitsu immediately in the back row. “What’s up corn head?” Genya says, taking a jab at Zenitsu’s blond hair. He swings his bag onto the desk on Zenitsu’s left side, closest to the window. Zenitsu’s face turns red, clearly irritated at the nickname. “I TOLD you to stop calling me that. You don’t see me calling YOU names, do you?”

Genya sits as he takes out his workbook. “No. But would you even want to try?” Genya looks at Zenitsu with a blank expression. He watches Zenitsu cower, “Nooo. You’re the only one big enough in our group to protect me if someone bullies me.” Zenitsu folds his arms in irritation causing Genya to laugh. He reaches over and pats the blond boy on the head, cooing, “That’s right. Big bro will always take care of little Zenitsuuuuu.” He laughs hysterically as his hand is smacked away. “Shut it Chewbacca!”

By the time lunch came around, Genya was starving. Wanting something to soothe him over on his walk to meet the group, he begins fishing for the ohagi Tanjiro gave him earlier. As he walks down the hall, he slows his pace to look for the white plastic that he threw into his backpack. Suddenly he’s jolted to the side, a body hitting him on his left, or rather, falling into him. He looks down at the smaller person in front of him and all he sees is teal. TEAL EYES. An eye color he’s never seen on anyone before. He’s staring. He knows he’s staring. But the person beneath him is staring back. It’s not until the smaller person backs up does Genya realize that at some point, his arm came up and around to hold onto the stranger that fell into him. The stranger takes a step or two back and speaks. “Sorry. Someone pushed me. But thank you for catching me.”

Beautiful. It’s all that Genya can repeat in his head. Beautiful. Beautiful. Beautiful.

Finally, the words the stranger muttered registers, and before he can stop himself, he speaks up, voice stern, “Who?”

The smaller person in front of him crooks their head to the side as if analyzing Genya’s reaction. “Oh…I’m not sure. Some boy from my year. I think he had red and yellow hair?” The stranger places their fingers on their chin, deep in thought. Genya chuckles. Cute.

Genya steps closer to the person, making the smaller one crane their head up to look at him. “It won’t happen again. I’ll make sure of it. But if anyone else bothers you, just let me know.” It’s a bold statement, he knows it is. But as a senior and standing at 6 ft tall, Genya finally has some leverage at school. And if that means stopping someone from picking on the person in front of him to make him look good…then he’ll do it.

The smaller person smirks, an eyebrow cocking up. “You’re very sure of yourself, aren’t you?”

Genya smiles at this, shoving his hands into his pockets, shoulders shrugging, trying to give an air of nonchalance. “Well, it’s not a card I pull all the time. But when I do, it’s for good reason. Like to impress someone new.” This is new for Genya. He’s never been one to flirt. Never been very good at it. He has a small list of such encounters to prove that he’s anything but good at flirting. But for whatever reason, that doesn't seem to be the case here.

The person in front of him smirks, slowly moving to walk away. “Well thank you for that. I guess I’ll see you later, Tree.” The grin that Genya was sporting drops. Tree?

Before Genya could react to the bizarre nickname, the stranger playfully bumps his shoulder as they walk away. Leaving Genya lost in the hallway.

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Genya finally reaches their lunch spot outside. A shady place he and his friends claimed theirs for the last three years. Being the first to arrive, Genya throws his backpack and lunch bag on the floor before throwing himself down on the grass to enjoy the quiet. He knows when the others arrive, chaos will ensue. So, he closes his eyes and relaxes, allowing his body to sink into the ground.

“Hello Tree.”

Genya’s eyes fly open. Staring down at him were two teal orbs. The stranger from the hall was hovering over him with a smirk on their face. Before he could respond, a voice breaks his ear drums.

“That’s not a tree!! That’s a soft-boy! HAHAHA!”

Ughhh, Inosuke.

Genya’s face goes red. Zenitsu’s right, he should stop calling him names. Genya sits up looking at the people around him as Tanjiro moves forward, joining him on the grass.

“Hey Genya. This is Muichiro. He’s the cousin I told you about this morning.” Tanjiro points to the teal eyed boy still standing near them.

Muichiro. He’s the cousin? The boy from the hall…is Tanjiro’s cousin?! Genya’s ears are on fire. He flirted with Tanjiro’s cousin… Jesus fucking Christ.

Not wanting anyone to sense his distress, Genya decides to play it cool. He turns slightly towards Muichiro, arms braced on his bent legs, trying to give off an air of indifference, like the boy’s presence didn’t affect him. “Ah, so you’re the Ohagi.” He snickers out loud, but internally he’s screaming. The smirk on Muichiro’s face disappears, his brow twitches. He obviously hit a nerve. He was officially back to being a terrible flirt because the boy in front of him did not appreciate his response at all.

Tanjiro laughs nervously, picking up on the tension. “Haha, yeah. The ohagi. Uh…Muichiro, this is Genya. But I think you two might’ve met already?”

Muichiro cocked his eyebrow, staring Genya down. A sour look on his face. After a moment of silence, Muichiro looks at Tanjiro, grunts in response and turns away, sitting with Nezuko.

Genya stares at the boy’s back, mouth dropping open, eyes going wide. Was he just…dismissed? Genya was officially annoyed. And that was an understatement. Their flirting earlier obviously a fluke. He felt stupid, embarrassed. If he knew the guy was Tanjiro’s cousin, he wouldn’t have acted the way he did.

With a scowl on his face, Genya stands, patting his pants down lightly before grabbing his bag.

 “Hey, where are you going? Lunch isn’t over yet.” Tanjiro looks at Genya, distressed from his friend’s sudden departure.

“I’m not in the mood. I’ll see ya later.” Genya’s response was short. Feeling like a fool, he just wanted to be away from everyone.

“Okay… DONT FORGET ABOUT PRACTICE!!!”

Genya waves his hand, dismissing Tanjiro, and begins walking toward the main building. Not catching the set of teal eyes watching him leave.

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Muichiro doesn’t want to be here. He didn’t want to come back to school. He was perfectly happy being homeschooled. But it’s been 3 years, and his mom felt like it was time to go back to some kind of normalcy.

Normal.

Nothing was normal about their life and how they were living. He wanted to be home. In his own clothes, in his bed. Not here, stuck in a stuffy uniform that goes all the way up his neck. Not at a school with a bunch of people he didn’t know. Not here, surrounded by stupid kids worried about stupid things that don’t mean anything. But here he was. Leaving his class to meet up with Tanjiro. Tanjiro’s class was on the opposite side of the school yard where he said he and his friends go for lunch, but he wanted to make sure they walked there together so he could be introduced to everyone. So, there he was, leaving his class and walking opposite the crowd to the back building to Tanjiro.

The class he left wasn’t particularly memorable. Home Economics. If anything, it was boring and a waste of time. He knows how to take care of himself, why does he need a class for that? Unfortunately, his attitude towards the class wasn’t well received as a group of kids in his class decided to make it their personal responsibility to harass him for the remainder of class. It was beneath him, but it was still annoying.

As he exited through his classroom door, beginning his walk down the hall, a hard body suddenly slammed into him almost knocking him off his feet. He felt himself falling and then slamming into someone. He steadied himself, quickly looking to his right just in time to see the red and yellow hair of the main bully from his class, laughing as he walked away. Asshole.

His thoughts were then brought back to his current situation; he fell on someone. Muichiro looked up and straight into a pair of violet eyes. Deep and beautiful like an amethyst.

The person he fell into was TALL like a giant tree. Muichiro having to crane his head just to look up at him. He was huge too. Shoulders and chest wide. This guy for sure had to work out. And damn was he cute. Long black mohawk, rough exterior, and a deep scar across his face. Definitely the bad boy type, and Muichiro liked it.

He noticed they were staring at one another. Long enough that people were taking notice. It was then that Muichiro felt an arm around his waist that wasn’t his. He stepped back giving them both some space. Embarrassed, he quickly gave his apology, expecting the interaction to end at that. That was until the boy spoke. “Who?”

He's startled by his tone. Was the boy upset? But answers quickly, “Oh…I’m not sure. Some boy from my year. I think he had red and yellow hair?” He wasn’t lying when it came to who it was. But the last thing he wanted on his first day was trouble with anyone.

The boy gets closer to him, diminishing any space Muichiro had put between them. The boy towered over him, making Muichiro feel so small but not intimidating. If anything, he was intrigued.

“It won’t happen again. I’ll make sure of it. But if anyone else bothers you, just let me know.”

Muichiro feels himself getting warm and he can’t help but smirk. He’s never been hit on before and that’s exactly what’s happening here. He wants to stay, wants to know who this person is, but unfortunately, Tanjiro is waiting for him. “Well thank you for that. I guess I’ll see you later, Tree.” Muichiro smirks at the boy in front of him. Enjoying his response to the nickname. He gives him a playful bump to the shoulder and walks away. Maybe school won’t be that bad after all.

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Well, this was a turn. Muichiro definitely wanted another run in with the purple giant he just met but didn’t expect to see him again so soon. Five minutes later as a matter of fact. Him and Tanjiro were friends.

Ugh.

Was he happy about seeing him again so soon, sure. Was he happy about him and Tanjiro being friends, eh he’ll get over it. What he wasn’t happy about was the guy’s now dismissive attitude towards him. Five minutes ago, they were in the school hallway literally flirting with each other for everyone to see. But now, surrounded by his friends, the guy was acting like an asshole. Maybe he was being too sensitive. But Muichiro never gets attention like that and the one time he does, he’s treated like shit afterwards. He was not going to make a scene of it. He didn’t want to feed into this guy and his bullshit. The guy obviously sees what happened earlier as a joke. So, he turns to his cousin and sits, joining her and her friends, ignoring the boys behind him. Yes, he was being petty, but the guy deserves it.

He tries not to pay him any mind, tries to be present to the conversation going on in front of him. Not wanting to let the guy know he got to him. But he can’t help but try and listen in to his and Tanjiro’s conversation. He wants to know what his deal is. Was his interaction between them just a joke to him? Muichiro sits, internally fuming. That is until he hears movement. The guy behind him is getting up to leave. Muichiro stiffens, trying his best not to turn around. Was the guy upset? For what? He was the one that decided to be rude. Did he read this wrong? Muichiro doesn’t have time to make sense of his thoughts before he sees the guy walking off. His stomach dropping in disappointment.

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Wanting to get away from everyone, Genya decided to go to his next class and just relax until it started. It was his advance class so he knew it would be empty and quiet. He had a good thirty minutes left of lunch. Deciding to take advantage of the time and after losing his appetite, a nap was the next best thing.

When he arrived at his classroom, there were only a handful of students taking refuge inside. He walked to the back left desk, closest to the window, and sat down. The long two-person desk allowed him to spread out comfortably, placing his bag on the extra seat. He folded his arms onto the desk and buried his head, enjoying the silence of the room and the humming coming from the AC Unit.

Fifteen minutes. He had fifteen minutes to himself before someone disrupted his peace.First, he heard someone shuffling into the classroom. Then, he heard steps heading in his direction coming to a stop on his right next to the extra chair holding his school bag.

He’s always sat by himself in his advanced classes, and this time was no different. Since they were advanced, his friends didn’t share them. Brain-boy. Another name Inosuke liked to call him. He didn’t really get partnered up all that often either as the teachers trusted him enough to handle the work on his own, hence sitting alone. Which was why someone standing next to the vacant seat was unusual.

He refused to look up, hoping the intruder would go away and leave him and his extra seat alone.

They didn’t.

“Hello Tree.”

Dear God. Genya looks up, irritated that he’s being spoken to. His eyes immediately finding teal. Muichiro.

“…Hi.” Genya responds gruffly, not really knowing what else to say.

Muichiro then proceeds to pull the seat out on Genya’s right, grabbing the school bag and placing it on Genya’s side of the desk. Genya watches the entire scene, mesmerized at the boy’s audacity. Muichiro then lifts his own bag onto the desk and begins taking out his school supplies.

Genya looks around, making note of all the vacant seats in the classroom. Flabbergasted, he can’t help but blurt out, “What are you doing here?”

Muichiro stops his movements, turning to face Genya. He stares. Not saying a thing. Not moving. Genya starts to get weirded out; he begins leaning back trying to put some distance between him and the boy now sitting next to him.

Muichiro finally speaks, “Despite what you might think, just because I’m related to Tanjiro doesn’t make me an idiot”

Silence. Then, without being able to help it, Genya chuckles, a little shocked at his response.

Genya shakes his head, a small smile gracing his face, “If that’s the case then this is gonna be a change. Not really used to conversing with anyone above a grade 4 reading level.”

Genya turns back to his own side of the desk, placing his head back into his arms. Breaking eye contact.

“Are you talking about your pig friend?”

Genya lets out a sudden boisterous laugh. Causing the few students in their class to turn in their direction.

“He will have you know that he calls that mask of his a ‘boar’. I’m still debating if it’s even an animal at all and not some weird experiment that came from a nuclear lab.” Genya’s response is muffled. Choosing not to lift his head from his arms. Completely missing the smile appearing on Muichiro’s face at his response.

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Okay, so maybe the guy didn’t hate him. Maybe he really wasn’t a jerk. Maybe Muichiro was acting like a little brat. It’s up for debate. But all Muichiro knows is that during the last hour of class with him, he liked it. And it seemed like the guy liked it too.

They didn’t get the chance to talk much. As soon as the teacher walked in, they really couldn’t find time to have a full-on conversation. But that didn’t stop them from making little quips at some of the stuff the teacher or students said or did. Not harshly, just for a little fun between them. The air was light for the most part but there was definitely an underlining level of tension. The air surrounding them charged. The vibe between them heavily flirtatious. If Muichiro kept stretching a certain way, accentuating certain parts of him, then that was all coincidental. It wasn’t like the guy wasn’t trying similar moves. There was for sure a handful of times he stretched out the length of his arms on the table, accidentally bumping Muichiro’s elbow. Did the guy leave his arm there a little longer than necessary, did Muichiro decide to leave his elbow there when he felt the contact….no one will really know. But whatever is happening, Muichiro is on cloud 9.

Apparently, his shift in mood was noticeable enough that Tanjiro mentioned it as they met after school.

 Tanjiro waited for Muichiro at the front gate, Nezuko nowhere to be seen. “Tanjiro. Where’s Nezuko?” Tanjiro turns to Muichiro, ohagi in his mouth, words muffled when he spoke, “Muichiro!” Tanjiro swallows his bite before speaking again. “She’s with Kanao and Aoi. She knew I had practice today and didn’t want to wait around. I actually forgot to mention that to you. But where I’m practicing is on the way to your house, so it works out. Anyway, how was your last class?” Tanjiro takes another bite of his treat.

Muichiro shrugs, not really sure how to explain what happened in his class. “It was fine. Nothing too memorable. What practice are you talking about? I didn’t know you were in a sport.”

Tanjiro chuckles. “I’m not. I was asked but sports are not my thing. It’s band practice.” Muichiro scrunches his nose at his response. “You play like the flute or something?” Tanjiro laughs again, preparing to answer but then hears his name called.

“Tanjiro! Sorry. I had to put my stuff away and some kid….” Genya’s voice drops off as he approaches the two boys. Obviously surprised at Muichiro’s presence.

Muichiro’s eyes go wide, cheeks beginning to flush. Genya. Genya was here. Muichiro looks away, suddenly nervous. With today’s interactions being considered, apparently Genya alone is funny and sweet. But Genya around friends, he’s everything but.

Muichiro steps to the side, away from Genya and closer to Tanjiro, hiding himself behind him. It’s stupid. It’s just some random guy. It’s not like him to act like this around people. People always told him growing up that he was always emotionless, non-reactionary, not fazed by people or by what they say. He’s only known this guy for one day. Why is he behaving like this? Regardless, he decides to remain quiet. Looking away from the two boys and just staying to himself.

Tanjiro notices the shift in his mood though. “Muichiro, are you okay? You seem upset. Did something happen?” All Muichiro can do is shake his head and keep his head down. But of course, Tanjiro is not one to ignore when a loved one is in distress. “Are you sure? When we met up you were smiling nonstop. That’s why I asked about your last class. I know you weren’t in the best mood at lunch, but you seemed so happy after. Thought something happened to cheer you up.” Muichiro’s head snaps over to Tanjiro then to Genya. Genya was sporting the same flush on his face, eye cast down. Muichiro didn’t know what to say.

Then without warning, Genya took off, gruffly muttering “Let’s go”. Walking away down the sidewalk. Tanjiro squeaks in surprise “Genya wait up! Come on Muichiro, Genya’s place is on the way home.” Tanjiro smiles as he begins moving forward.

He can’t move, he feels like breaking into tears. He’s never been so humiliated before and no one even realizing it. He shakes his head, causing Tanjiro to stop in place, worry spreading across his face. “Muichiro?”

Muichiro notices that Tanjiro’s tone causes Genya to stop in his tracks, but he doesn’t turn.

“You go ahead. I think I’m going to spend some time in the library. Have fun at your band practice or whatever.” He doesn’t give Tanjiro time to respond. He turns on his heels and almost runs back onto the school grounds. He passes building after building and doesn’t stop until he’s at their lunch spot underneath the huge oak tree. He feels so stupid. He feels so dumb. He feels like he’s being played. And by someone he doesn’t even know. He throws his school bag down and sits against the tree. His knees to his chest, arms wrapping around them and placing his head against his arms. He cries. It’s been years since he’s cried. He hasn’t cried since his brother died. Since his dad left. But here he is, like an idiot, letting some stranger get to him. Maybe this was just a catalyst to something bigger. Maybe he needed this to let out all the anxiety he’s had pent up since learning he had to come back to school. Whatever it is, he just hopes it’s over now. And he hopes he doesn’t see that boy again.

Chapter Text

Genya is an asshole. That day in front of the school, the way he acted and how it made Muichiro feel… He could practically hear the tears in the boy’s voice. Why did he behave that way? Was he hurt at how Muichiro moved away from him and refused to look at him…maybe. But there had to be a reason behind it. Tanjiro had said that the boy was all smiles after their class together. What happened?

It’s been two weeks since that day, and Muichiro hasn’t looked at him once. Hasn’t joined them for lunch. Hasn’t sat next to him in their class together. Opting to sit at a desk on the opposite side of the room, alone.

Genya feels like shit. Genya wants to fix this. Wants to get to know him better. Get closer to him. But he’s scared. Scared at how in just one day someone can turn his world upside down.

Genya sits at the kitchen table in his and Sanemi’s apartment. Cheek on the table, arms limp at his sides. He’s basically given up at this point on what to do. He has practice with the guys in a few hours at Tanjiro’s house but doesn’t have the will to go.

Sanemi walks by just as he lets out another depressive sigh. Sanemi stops in his tracks, looking at his younger brother. “What the hell is wrong with you? You look like shit.”

“Thanks Aniki. You always know how to make me feel better” Genya groans turning his head, so his forehead rests against the cold surface.

Sanemi walks from the hall to the small kitchen, rolling up the sleeves of his black button-down work shirt. “You’re not having like a crisis, or something are you? I don’t know if I have the mental capacity for that right now” Sanemi pulls the seat across from Genya out and sits. Folding his arms across his chest as he looks at his brother.

“So?” Sanemi says.

“So, what?” Genya speaks into the table. He doesn’t want to have this conversation, especially with his brother.

Sanemi rolls his eyes, “Stop being a little shit and spill it. You break up with your band or something?”

It’s Genya’s turn to roll his eyes. Lifting his head and placing his chin on the table, “No I didn’t break up with the band. Bet you would love that.”

Sanemi smirks, “A guy can only hope. So, what’s up? I don’t think I’ve seen you this down in a long time. Well…not since last year when you made a pass at Kanroji, and she laughed at you.” Sanemi cackles, Genya’s face turns red causing Sanemi to go into a full maniacal laugh.

“She did NOT laugh at me! She said I was cute, but I was too young.” Genya huffed. Folding his arms across his chest in irritation. “You’re no help.” He looks away from his brother, annoyed.

Sanemi slows his laughing, finally able to respond. “How can I help if you won’t tell me what’s going on, stupid.”

Genya looks down, arms dropping to his lap. He sighs again. “Aniki, I think I fucked up.”

“Language.” Sanemi says curtly. Genya rolls his eyes, “Seriously? Do you hear yourself when you talk?”

Sanemi shrugs. “I’m allowed to cuss. You on the other hand are not an adult and I’m your guardian so I have the right to tell you to watch your fucking mouth.”

“Can you shut up for a second so I can talk?” Genya was losing his patience. He was already in a bad mood and Sanemi wasn’t helping. But luckily, his brother remains silent, prompting Genya to go on.

“So, there’s this kid at school that just started. Tanjiro’s cousin. See…when I first ran into them, I didn’t know they were Tanjiro’s cousin and…I kinda flirted with them.”

Sanemi’s eyes go wide, mouth falling open.

“It was consensual! We were both flirting with each other. Well right after that, there was some kind of misunderstanding I think, cause they haven’t talked to me since. I think most of it’s my fault. I kinda acted like an asshole with them when we were with the rest of the group. I don’t want them to think I’m that kind of person. I’m not an asshole. I want to fix whatever this is, but I just don’t know how. What do I do?”

Genya finally finishes his long rant. Looking up at his brother, hoping for answers. But all he gets is Sanemi sitting with a look of disbelief.

“Jesus Christ kid, it’s barely been two weeks, and you already have relationship drama? You embarrassed of them or something? And what’s with the ‘they’ pronouns?” Sanemi lifts himself from his seat, walking to their small fridge, grabbing two sodas and making his way back, placing one in front of Genya.

“No, I’m not embarrassed of them! And it’s not a relationship! It’s Tanjiro’s cousin. I know I’m going to be seeing this person around and I just want us to be cool with one another.”

“Genya, you flirted with the kid. You don’t flirt. You’re the shyest kid I’ve ever met. You don’t just do these kinds of things unless you feel something with someone. You obviously like them. Otherwise, you wouldn’t be freaking out this way.”

Genya looks down at his lap. Leg bouncing up and down. Nervous at his next words.

“It’s a guy, Aniki. The person I flirted with is a guy. And I want to keep talking to them. Not as just a friend or cause he’s Tanjiro’s cousin. But because I want to know him better. I’ve never felt this way before. And so quickly. I think that’s what scares me the most. What if this isn’t what I think it is? What if it’s just infatuation or something? And what if I do something stupid and not only ruin whatever this is with this person, but my friendship with Tanjiro?”

Genya is on the verge of breaking down. Crying in front of Sanemi and looking like an even bigger loser than he already sees him as. But what he hears next is Sanemi’s soft voice.

“Genya, look at me.” Genya slowly brings his eyes to Sanemi. His brother stares back, not with ridicule, but with a softness that Genya never really sees.

“I know you’re going through a lot. And it’s obvious that this boy is causing a lot of feelings within you. But just remember that you’re still a kid. You don’t have to have everything figured out. You don’t have to plan out forever. It’s okay to just enjoy now. It’s okay to just feel things and not look too deep into it. If you like this kid, then just go with it. Don’t question it. Enjoy it. If it doesn’t work out, then oh well. Tanjiro knows the kind of person you are. And I doubt he would fault you if this relationship doesn’t work out with his cousin.” Sanemi leans forward. Elbows on the table, a hand reaching out for Genya’s. Genya moves forward, placing his hand in Sanemi’s.

“I’m your brother, Genya. I’m never going to hate you for who you want to love. Okay?”

Genya feels tears running down his cheeks. He nods at his brother, not able to speak. Sanemi lets go and stands again, going to Genya’s side and patting his head roughly. Genya laughs, swatting Sanemi’s hand away.

“Alright. Good brotherly talk. Now don’t come to me with this sappy bullshit for at least a few months. You have practice at Tanjiro’s, right?” Genya nods, wiping at his cheeks before looking at Sanemi again.

“Alright, well, be careful getting there. Text me when you make it there and when you get home. I’m closing so I’ll be home late. But let me know if you need anything, okay? And if I don’t answer, call….”

“Call the restaurant, I know I know.” Genya waves his brother off. Finally, opening his soda.

“Alright. I’ll see you later then.” Sanemi walks to the genkan, getting into his work shoes. Genya looks up again speaking before Sanemi leaves, “Hey Aniki?” Sanemi looks his way, eyebrows raised. “Love you” Sanemi smirks, shaking his head. “Yeah… love you too kid. Good night”

Sanemi was finally on his lunch break, sitting on the trunk of his old beaten-up Silver Toyota Corolla in the parking lot of the restaurant he worked at. It was a piece of shit car. But it was his piece of shit. It did the job. He and Genya didn’t have much. And what they did, he worked hard for. And Genya, being a sweet kid, appreciated everything Sanemi was able to give him.

They’ve never had it easy. Their entire life. Even now they struggle. But now, Sanemi is the adult, and he will do whatever he can to make sure Genya sees as little of that struggle as possible.

But now, Genya is getting older, coming into his own. And Sanemi can’t protect him like he always has from all the horror and heartbreak the world has. It stresses him out. He’s overprotective. The two fighting at times because of it. But he does his best. He’s trying. He reminds himself often that he’s the brother, not the parent. He can’t get too harsh with Genya. But judging from their past experiences when it comes to parenting, he thinks he’s doing okay. Genya’s alive. He’s in school. He has friends. And now…maybe a boyfriend. It’s hard to see him grow up. To him, Genya will always be his baby brother. Genya’s always needed him, and Sanemi has always been there. But that reality may be slipping away. And when it does, what is he going to do with himself? Unlike Genya, he doesn’t have any friends, and no potential lovers. Just random hook ups now and then and even those are far and few. When he isn’t at school, he’s working, and if he isn’t working, he’s at home taking care of Genya. Making sure he’s eaten, slept, and done his homework. But Genya’s seventeen now. Maybe he doesn’t have to be doing that for him anymore.

Sanemi sighs deeply, slouching even more than he already was before taking another bite of his tamago sandwich. They need to go on a grocery run. He’s been eating tamago all day for three days straight.

“Hey.”

Sanami’s ears perk at the voice nearby, recognizing it immediately. He looks up, head turning to the side to the man standing near his car. Giyuu.

“What’s up Tomioka?” Sanemi looks back down, taking another bite of his sandwich.

Giyuu walks forward, moving to Sanemi’s left side, leaning against the car trunk, arm brushing Sanemi’s black slacks lightly. He can feel it though. Very aware of Giyuu’s every move when he’s near.

“Nothing. Lunch.” Sanemi watches as Giyuu unwraps his own sandwich, katsu. Sanemi’s favorite. “You okay? I could hear you sighing from the back door.” Giyuu continues, before taking a bite.

Sanemi watches him. His movements. His lips as he speaks. As he eats. His hands. Fingers wrapped around his food. He’s pretty. Always thought so since the moment he saw him.

“Nothing. Just sibling stuff. I think my brother might be getting a boyfriend” he chuckles, looking ahead into the parking lot. Sanemi doesn’t really share his personal life. With Genya or anyone else for that matter. He keeps things close. But with Genya getting older, maybe it’s time for him to branch out. Test the waters and all that crap.

“Is there something wrong with that?” There’s a sharpness in Giyuu’s tone that causes Sanemi to look back at him.

“No. Of course there isn’t. It’s just…it’s made me realize that he’s grown up now. He’s, for lack of a better word, an adult now. He’s able to make his own choices, and that scares me. I don’t want him to get hurt. I don’t want anything bad to happen to him, but I can’t really say no, you know?” Sanemi looks away, not wanting Giyuu to see the vulnerability on his face.

The moment is quiet. No one moves until Giyuu turns to face Sanemi, placing himself just between Sanemi’s parted legs. He takes his food and places it in Sanemi’s free hand as his own move to his ponytail. He undoes his hair, letting it flow along his back and shoulders.

Sanemi is hot. He’s sweating. If he wasn’t wearing all black, he would be in trouble. But he can’t take his eyes off him. He watches as Giyuu combs through his hair, pulling it back into a ponytail. It’s a simple action. Mundane to others. But to Sanemi, it was like a dance. A call to him. And he finds himself with the urge to throw the sandwiches on the floor and reach for the man in front of him. Bringing him closer into his space. Touching his skin, smelling his hair, feeling his lips against his own.

Sanemi knows he has a crush. Known this for a while. Ever since he started working at the restaurant they stand in front of. He’s been hard for Giyuu for the last year and a half. He’s pretty sure everyone who works with them thinks Sanemi is indifferent with Giyuu. Might even say that he lowkey hates him. But that’s far from the truth. Sanemi is just bad with feelings. Bad at getting close. He’s worked with these people for almost two years and the only person he semi-gets along with is Obanai.

But Giyuu is not gay. At least that’s what Sanemi tells himself. Sanemi doesn’t even think he, himself, is gay. He just likes Giyuu. Ever since meeting him, no one has been able to get his attention. And many have tried.

“Shinazugawa…”

Sanemi’s attention is brought back to the man in front of him. The man who is staring at him with the most gorgeous sapphires. He grunts, signaling to Giyuu that he has his attention.

“Just because your brother is grown up, doesn’t mean he’s not going to want you as a part of his life anymore. If anything, he may need you now more than ever. His needs when it comes to the world are just changing. Not his relationship with you. He may not need you as frequently, but when he does, it may be deeper than you’ve ever had to go. You’re not going anywhere. Remember that.”

Sanemi is stunned. He doesn’t think he’s ever heard Giyuu speak as much as he has in that moment. And to school Sanemi on top of it. He likes this. Likes that Giyuu is checking him and knocking some sense into him. He never thought he could like the man more.

“Uh…thanks Tomioka. I really appreciate that. That honestly makes me feel a lot better.” Sanemi is blushing but he refuses to look away. This is the first piece of solid advice he’s gotten from anyone ever. Though Tengen would beg to differ.

“No problem” Giyuu moves his hand forward. Grabbing a sandwich from Sanemi’s hand. Remaining in between Sanemi’s legs. “And if he needs anyone to talk to about being gay, bi or whatever, I’m always available.” He takes a bite of the sandwich in his hand. Unaware of the heart attack Sanemi is experiencing at the words he just spoke.

“You-you’re…gay?” Giyuu looks into his eyes, nodding slowly as he swallows his bite. “Yep. Been out since I was fifteen. So, if he just wants to talk, or his boyfriend wants to talk, just give them my number.”

Sanemi is freaking out. He’s gay. He’s gay and…is he single?

“Uh… I don’t-I don’t have your number to give to them.” Sanemi can’t stop stuttering. But it doesn’t seem like Giyuu has noticed at all. In response to Sanami, Giyuu puts his hand out, palm up, waiting expectantly for Sanemi’s phone. Sanemi jolts, retrieving the older model smartphone in his pocket and handing it to Giyuu. He’s embarrassed. It’s old and the screen is cracked. But it works and that’s all that matters. He watches as Giyuu enters his number before handing it back.

“It’s under Tomioka. And if you have any questions too, feel free to ask.” He takes another bite of his sandwich before taking a step back, beginning to walk off. And before Sanemi can stop himself, he blurts out, “Your boyfriend won’t mind, will he?”

Giyuu stops mid step. He turns to Sanemi, an eyebrow raised. Then, a small smirk appears on his lips. “I don’t have a boyfriend, Shinazugawa” then walks away. Sanemi continues to sit and stare at Giyuu’s retreating form.

He looks down at his phone at the new contact. And there it is Tomioka Giyuu, with a little water wave emoji and a blue heart. Sanemi feels his cheeks heat up. He didn’t think Giyuu was one to use emojis, but he was wrong. He pockets his phone and resituates himself on his car before taking a bite of the sandwich in his hand. Crunch. Wait. Sanemi stops chewing, pulling his hand away to look at the sandwich in his hand. Katsu. Giyuu took his sandwich and left his own with Sanemi. Oh.

Genya’s surprised. The talk with Sanemi made him feel way better than he thought it would. It made things a little clearer.

He likes Muichiro. It was quick. It was sudden. But like Sanemi said, just go with it. All Genya knows is that he wants to get to know him better.

So, the next step is easy, apologize. The hard part of this next step is ‘how’. Where does he start? How does he let Muichiro know that he’s sorry and that he also possibly, maybe, kind of wants to go out with him without sounding like a jerk?

He decides to let it go. He has time over the weekend to think about it before school on Monday. Pulling his guitar strap over his head then putting on his boots, he heads out the door. Locking up as he sends a text to Sanemi that he’s leaving. All he wants to do right now is play his guitar.

Before Sanemi and Genya left home, there was never really any music in his life. Growing up, his time was spent being quiet and hiding. When he wasn’t at school, he was home…hiding. Unlike other people, his dad didn’t love him. Him or Sanemi. He really didn’t know what a dad was supposed to be like until he met Tanjiro’s dad. He thought all dads were like his dad. Mean, hateful, violent, drunk. There was never a happy moment with his dad in that house.

When he was seven, Sanemi made a club house for him. It was in their closet. It was small, but it was enough for them. It was the world to them. Sanemi would hold him close, humming a song as Genya would fall asleep in their club house. The humming helping to drown out the noise from the other room. The crashing. The glass breaking. That space was everything.

When Genya was nine, their dad found their club house. When they came home from school, it was gone. Their room was destroyed. Everything was broken. Everything in pieces. That was the first time Genya saw Sanemi get angry. Tears were in his eyes, but not from fear. From anger. He yelled at Genya. He had never yelled at Genya before. But he screamed at him, told him to leave. To run. So, he did. To Tanjiro’s. Three days later, Sanemi came to get him. He had bruises and cuts everywhere. When Mrs. Kamado opened the door, he kept his head down, not letting her see. But Genya knew that she knew something was wrong. A few days later, the police showed up to their house. They came inside, looked at them, but nothing happened. Boys will be boys their father said. And that was it. That was the day Genya got the scar on his face. And that was the last time Mrs. Kamado called the police.

There was never really any music in his life. So, when he heard music for the first time, it became everything.

When Genya was thirteen, he and Sanemi went to a festival in town. It was his first time going since Sanemi and him left home. There was food and games everywhere and Sanemi let him play and eat as much as he wanted. But the thing he remembered most vividly was the live music. The idea of going up on a stage and playing or singing was a concept that Genya never thought about before. The best part of the night was when the evening came. The performances got louder and crazier. The best band of the night being a rock band with the coolest female singer.

That’s when Genya fell in love with music. All he talked about at that point was wanting to play in a band. He listened to music nonstop. Learning as many genres as he could. He spent the entire summer trying to convince the guys to form a band. Inosuke was easy enough. When Genya talked about what drums were he was all about it. Given the ability to beat the shit out of anything making him happy. Tanjiro was easy too. He was always open to doing new things and it also meant that he could get out of sports at school. His mom saying he can choose one, not both. So, music was a no brainer. He instantly fell in love with the Bass Guitar. His carefree spirit matching perfectly with the deep sounds. Zenitsu on the other hand was a problem. They knew Zenitsu could play the shamisen and play it like a beast. But the boy did everything in his power to not get involved. But one pep talk from his gramps gave him the confidence to join. Also telling him Nezuko’s favorite instrument was the guitar, and it was in the bag.

They just didn’t have a singer though. Genya was planning to just be backup guitar, switching with the other two when needed but he never thought he would lead the band in vocals. But Tanjiro caught him one day while washing Sanemi’s car for some extra cash. He was singing a song playing on his speakers. It was from an American band, an older song, but an anthem for that time that he just loved singing. Sweetness. From that point, Tanjiro wouldn’t let it go. Even getting the others to spy on Genya until they all heard him sing and thus naming him lead vocals.

They didn’t have their own songs. They just played covers. They had a goal though. To eventually write their own stuff and play a show. Hopefully before Genya and Zenitsu graduate. It’s a goal that keeps them going.

Genya finally makes it to the Kamado residence. The walk was peaceful enough. The weather cool now that the evening had arrived. He walks up the steps quickly reaching for the doorbell, when suddenly, the door flies open. Genya is so surprised that he doesn’t get the chance to say or do anything before the person in front of him walks through the door frame and straight into his chest. The impact was harder than he anticipated. Enough that he feels himself taking a step back but quickly bracing himself. His arms fly forward as the person in front of him bounces off him and begins to fall back. He grabs anything he can reach and pulls them forward into him. He holds still, waiting for the rocking of their bodies to stop. When they’re stable, Genya pulls back, pulling the person in his arms away from him, ready to apologize. But the apology he has ready stalls in his throat. His face heating, his body stiffening. Muichiro.

Muichiro is in his arms. He needs to let go, but he can’t. He doesn’t want to. He’s here in Genya’s arms. Warm. Solid. Beautiful. Muichiro seems to come to full attention, looking up at Genya, eyes realizing who is standing in front of him. Muichiro tries to step back but Genya holds firm, pulling him forward instead.

“Genya…” Muichiro whispers. He looks uncomfortable. Sad. Nervous. He continues to try and get out of Genya’s arms. Realizing what he’s doing, Genya lets go.

“Oh my god I’m sorry, I’m so sorry...I-I didn’t-” Genya starts to ramble. He was horrified. He made Muichiro uncomfortable.

“Genya! You’re here!” Tanjiro appears at the door. Smiling and not sensing the awkward tension.

“Yeah sorry. I accidently ran into Muichiro and-”

“Night Tanjiro.” Muichiro mutters as he sneaks by Genya rushing down the walkway to the sidewalk. Genya watches his retreating back, stunned at his sudden departure.

“What? WAIT!” Genya darts back towards the walkway down to the sidewalk. Completely ignoring Tanjiro’s calls. He looks right then left, spotting Muichiro. Genya runs. The boy is small but he’s fast. Already down the block, turning left. Genya sprints. When he finally makes it to the boy, he moves to his front, arms stretched out to his sides blocking his path causing Muichiro to halt.

Now what?

No. No no no. This can’t be happening.

It’s been two weeks. He’s been able to avoid him for two weeks and it was all for nothing. Because standing in front of him, with his arms holding Muichiro in place, close to him, is Genya.

After his first day of school, and his well-needed cry, Muichiro decided to distance himself from his cousin’s friend group. It was for the best. They’re not his friends. He doesn’t even know them. Eventually he’ll find friends of his own. But coming in the middle of the school year, that goal is proving to be difficult. So, at lunch he sits alone, in class he sits alone, after school he walks alone. It’s always been that way. After his brother died, it’s just been him. And he’s fine with that.

Muichiro never really had friends to begin with. It was always him and his brother. Yuichiro. They were all they needed. If he didn’t feel like talking, Yuichiro would speak for him. If Yuichiro didn’t want to eat his sweet potato, Muichiro would. It was balanced. It was perfect. Then he died.

It was an accident of course. No one gets behind the wheel of a car drunk thinking they’re going to crash head on into another car with a father and son inside. But it happened, and that was the day Muichiro lost everything.

It was instant. Police said he didn’t feel any pain, probably didn’t even know what happened. But his dad did. His dad survived. He was in the hospital for 9 months before he could go home. His mental health, destroyed beyond repair. When he came home, he was just the shell of the man he use to be. He was empty. The loss of his son and him surviving killing him slowly. Going from provider to needing constant care finished off what was left of him. He left. He never came back.

That’s when his mom started dying. Not literally, but everything that was her was destroyed. To her, she lost everything. Her husband, her child. To her there was no reason to live anymore. She slept all day, couldn’t eat, couldn’t bathe, couldn’t do any basic care for herself. So Muichiro did it. Her only son, her last remaining family member. But the day Yuichiro died, to her, she lost both sons. Muichiro went from being her son to someone who was just there.

Homeschooling wasn’t her idea so he can process his brother’s death and his dad’s absence. It was because everyone around him crumbled, and he was the only one there to pick up the pieces.

He changed that year. He was the adult now. At twelve, he was forced to grow up. He schooled himself, took care of his mom who was now suffering from crippling depression, and took care of the house, bills, etc. He was no longer a child. Everything that other kids had to worry about was something he couldn’t even wish for. He didn’t have time for it. He thought he had it all figured out. His place in his life and what was expected of him.

But now he’s here. Standing in front of a boy that’s stirring things inside of himself that he never thought he’d feel. And all he wants is to run away. So, he did. He ran away, down the walkway and around the corner as fast as he could. He didn’t think Genya had the gall to run after him. But the boy was an idiot because he did and now, he’s blocking Muichiro’s way home.

Chapter Text

“What’s your problem?!” Muichiro yells. He just wants to go home. He wasn’t expecting to walk into Genya. Made it a point of not interacting with him. Yet here he is.

“Mui…I’m sorry but…I need to…talk to you.” Genya mutters in staggered breaths. Clearly out of breath from running after Muichiro.

Muichiro stiffens. His eyes widening, the anger and irritation he was feeling now gone. A sudden forgotten memory popping into his head. Mui. No one’s called him Mui since… Muichiro’s eyes start to itch, he can feel them getting heavy, the tears forming. He looks down and away from Genya. 

“What do you want, Genya? I need to go home.” He can’t look at him. He can’t do this. He’s on the verge of breaking. 

Genya relaxes, arms falling to his sides. Muichiro is upset, but there is something else happening. The boy’s guard is up, but he’s here, and Genya takes advantage of it. He speaks softly, not wanting the situation to escalate, “Let me walk you home. It’s late. You shouldn’t be walking home alone.” Genya reaches an arm out, hand hovering over Muichiro’s shoulder. He wants to touch, wants to get close and guide him home. But he doesn’t. He waits. Wanting the boy to tell him, to decide what happens next.

Muichiro is trying to keep it together. But Genya’s soft tone makes it harder. He obviously knows something is wrong. He can’t look up because he knows the minute he does, he’ll start to cry. He can’t just stand there because it’s weird and he needs to get home. He notices a hand, hovering closely to him. A hand near his shoulder, a silent ask, a question from Genya. He wants to walk him home, to make sure he gets there safely. 

With his previous emotions pushed to the side, now he’s nervous. How did he get all wrapped up in this with someone he doesn’t even know? But one thing Muichiro does know, that he hates that he feels, is how much he wants to talk to Genya again. The last two weeks alone were terrible, not because he was alone. No. But because no matter where he was, what he was doing, he knew Genya was looking for him, looking AT him. And the boy running after him tonight, solidified that. 

So Muichiro nods. Letting Genya know that yes, it’s okay to take him home. 

Genya lets out a sigh. A small smile appearing on his face. His hand lands on Muichiro’s shoulder gently. Slowly making its way to his back as he slowly guides the boy forward in the direction he assumes is Muichiro’s house. 

They walk. Genya’s hand slowly making its way down Muichiro’s back until it settles on the small of his back. Still guiding. Still safe. They stay quiet. The silence is somewhat awkward. So Genya decides to take this chance to fix this misunderstanding that they’re in.

“Muichiro…” Genya waits. Waiting to see if the boy next to him objects to him speaking. But he stays silent so Genya continues. 

“Mui…I want to apologize. For everything that’s happened between you and me.” Muichiro stops causing Genya to as well. He looks down at the boy at his side.

Muichiro is looking at him. He looks hurt. Sad. Like he’s aching. 

“For everything?” Muichiro whispers. Genya then realizes what he said and how Muichiro took it. He lets go of the boys back, arms going up waving back and forth hoping it will solidify his next words. “NO! No, no not everything. What I meant is I wanted to apologize for my behavior. I never meant to upset you or make you feel like our time together last week didn’t mean anything. It meant a lot to me actually. And, well, you not hanging with us and not speaking has sucked. And it really made me realize that I really like talking to you and I’d like to get to know you better. But that’s if you wanted to of course. I would never want to pressure you into doing something you didn’t want as well and-”

“Genya…” Genya stops. He was rambling again. He isn’t really sure what he said, but whatever it is, Muichiro looks…bashful. He’s hugging himself, making himself look smaller than he already is. And the rosiness on his cheeks, making him look adorable.

“Genya. I accept your apology. I just hope you can accept mine as well. I know I was being petty in my behavior. I was hurt. But I shouldn’t be. I know we just met, but I really like you. I really hope we can start over” Muichiro looks up at the boy in front of him with so much hope in his eyes. He wants to start over. Give, whatever this is, another shot. Muichiro steps closer, hoping his closer proximity will convey how much he wants this. He wants to get even closer, the chill in the air making him cold and wanting Genya’s warmth to make him feel better. 

Genya can’t help but be mesmerized by Muichiro. His eyes are like glass. Shiny and clear, almost shimmering. He notices the boy take a step forward and he instantly responds, taking a step forward as well. They’re so close. Genya has never been this close to a person he’s liked before. He notices Muichiro shiver. He wants to reach out again, hold Muichiro’s hands and warm them. Would that be okay? Is that too much too soon? But he remembers Sanemi’s words, just go for it. His hand moves forward touching Muichiro’s shoulder once again, hand trailing down Muichiro’s arm, freeing them from their hold, taking a hold of the smaller boy's hand. 

They stare at their combined hands. It’s hot. Their hands are on fire. Muichiro wants to know if he were to lean in, envelop Genya in a hug, would it feel as heated as this.

“I would like that too.” Genya mutters. Muichiro starts to feel a slight yank from the hand holding his, moving him forward and closer into Genya’s space. They’re so close. 

RRRIIIINNNNGGG 

Both boys freeze, the sound of a phone instantly halting everything in place. 

Muichiro notices Genya’s face turn red before he lets go of Muichiro’s hand. He watches as the boy wrestles to get something out of his pocket. His phone.

“Hello!” 

“Genya what the fuck?! Where are you?! I have Tanjiro calling me saying you took off after getting to his house!”

Genya rolls his eyes. He’s annoyed. His moment with Muichiro, ruined. “Jesus Christ Aniki! I’m fine! I’m walking his cousin home!”

“I don’t care if you’re walking the Prime Minister of Japan home! You were supposed to call me when you got to Tanjiro’s!”

Genya buries his face in his free hand in embarrassment. “Jesus Christ Aniki shut up…”

“Text me when you get back to Tanjiro’s. And no fucking around. Or dicking around for that matter.”

“OH MY GOD SHUT UP!”

Muichiro hears loud cackling on the phone before the person hangs up.

Genya continues to hold his face in his hand. Hand with the phone now limp at his side. He hates him. He hates his brother and he’s going to murder him in his sleep.

“Genya…” Genya looks up immediately. Muichiro is looking at him, a smirk plastered on his face. Arms crossed, hip jutted out. Looking sassy as hell.

“I-I’m sorry if you heard any of that. My brother, he’s overprotective…like sometimes, not all the time and he just wanted-“

Muichiro is suddenly at his chest. Looking up at him, eyes big and playful. “It’s okay. You’re cute when you’re flustered. Walk me home?” He’s all smiles. And that’s all Genya could’ve hoped for. 

“Ye-yeah of course.” Genya steps to the side, allowing Muichiro to start the walk forward. Genya stays at his side, feeling Muichiro bump into his side the whole way there. 

When Muichiro came to this new school, nothing about it was particularly memorable. When his mom brought up school in conversation he didn’t really have much to say. She kept asking how school has been during dinner, but he would just shrug and continue eating. Nothing stood out. Well…there’s one thing. But he chose not to bring it up. Not yet. 

A boy. Genya. Genya is funny. Genya is sweet and kind. A little abrasive at times but Muichiro knew that’s just who he is. That’s what made him so fun to watch. A new fun game of Muichiro’s is to find ways to make Genya blush. He’s finding that it doesn’t take much to do so, so he does it as often as he can. They don’t speak or interact much outside of class. Their friend group being so rambunctious, it was proving hard to get to know each other when they were together. But he knows Genya wants to.

It’s been a few days since Genya walked him home and Muichiro is starting to get an itch. He wants more. He wants to know him more. Wants to see him more. Wants to do more. All they seem to be doing right now is a whole lot of staring. And Muichiro can only take so much. The guy likes looking at him. Muichiro doesn’t mind it at all. He likes it. Likes the attention he gets from him and likes knowing that he is the only one to grab Genya’s attention like that. When he does catch Genya taking a look, Muichiro never looks away. He locks into the stare until Genya realizes he’s been caught and turns away, flushed and embarrassed. His head turning so quickly, he’s surprised Genya hasn’t hurt himself yet. Genya blushing is his favorite thing. He’s never realized anyone can turn that color before. It entertains him. 

And that’s why right now Muichiro is irritated. It's lunch time and everyone is enjoying their time together on the lawn underneath the tree. Everyone except him, that is. He, on the other hand, is sitting in an uncomfortable chair in a stuffy room stuck with the guidance counselor. Meeting once a week just before lunch to make sure he’s adjusting well. It’s stupid. He’s fine. As fine as anyone will ever be after losing a loved one. Luckily, most meetings never bleed into his lunch period. On this day though, it is, and Muichiro is two seconds away from throwing a fit and leaving the room. He didn’t have a problem with the meetings before, that was until a certain violet-eyed bad boy came into play. But here he is, missing half his lunch, wanting to be outside under the tree with his ‘friends’, with Genya, making him blush. Luckily, he has all next class to make up for that. Until then, he sits, giving one worded responses to the same questions from last week.

It’s half way through lunch, and Genya sits with the rest of the group munching on his food, not really paying attention to the people present. One person is missing. And that’s making him irritable. Why? It’s not like they talk when they are having lunch. But Genya would be lying to himself if he said his least favorite part of lunch was looking at the teal-eyed boy. Does he stare? Yes. Does he stare often? Absolutely. Does said teal-eyed boy catch him every time…yeah. But did that stop Genya from doing it again…no. He likes it. He likes looking at him. And if he really wants to admit to it, he likes being caught. Muichiro is cute. He’s nice to look at. He just…can’t help admiring him. And the inability to do so right now at this very moment is annoying.

“Hey Shinpagoda!” Genya rolled his eyes. Inosuke calling him everything but his actual name was just something he accepted by now. But there was still no excuse. They’ve known each other since grade three! 

“What Ino? I don’t have any food to give you. I ate my lunch already.” Genya takes that time to lay on the grass, closing his eyes. The tree branches above allowing just enough light to bring warmth.

“I don’t want your lame berry treats!” Inosuke shouts as he rises from his seat, the boar mask falling from the top of his head down onto his face as he tries approaching Genya.

Tanjiro speaks up as Zenitsu grabs Inosuke holding him in place. “He was just wondering why you looked so down today.”

“Yeah, you’ve been sighing. Loud enough apparently to rival the mountain king here” Zenitsu says as Inosuke mutters in the background about sighing being a boar challenge of battle. 

Genya rolls his eyes and sighs again, “Nothing’s wrong. Just tired I guess.” Genya places an arm across his eyes. He just needs quiet. He just wants to get through this lunch period. Everyone returns to their conversations and Genya slowly drowns out the noise. 

Some time passes before Genya starts to wake up. Not from the bell, but from something touching his face. Something is brushing lightly against his nose. The arm over his eyes moves, hand trying to brush away whatever is touching him. It stops and he relaxes.

Then it happens again. He opens his eyes slowly, allowing the light to hit them. But the tree branches above are not what he’s looking at but a boy kneeling over him. His black and teal hair hanging down over his face and into Genya’s eyes. He can’t help the fluttering in his chest and the warmth that spreads throughout his entire body. Muichiro is hovering over him, knees on the floor, and face close. He sits with a small smile on his face, and Genya can see a small blush across his cheeks. 

“Hi…” Genya’s voice is soft, a whisper, just for the two of them to hear. He can’t take his eyes off him. He honestly might never want to.

Muichiro is finally free. With his satchel on his shoulder, he proceeds to walk, albeit quickly, to his friend group. He gets a few stares towards the end of the corridor as his walking turns into a full-on sprint. He has 15 minutes left. The counselor had some nerve wanting to keep him for his entire lunch period. He’ll be mentioning this to the principal.

When he finally arrives, he scans the group, not seeing a certain mohawked giant in sight. His shoulders immediately drop. He missed him? Where would he go? He never left lunch early since that first day. Maybe Genya decided to leave early to head to their class. Muichiro prepares to turn, to walk back towards the main building. That was until he was caught.

“Muichiro!” Muichiro eyes Tanjiro sitting with the group, waving fanatically. Muichiro puts on his best smile and walks to his cousin. As he was about to sit, Tanjiro whispers towards him, “Try and stay quiet, we have a sleeping giant next to us haha.” Tanjiro moves to his left, revealing a sleeping Genya on the grass. Eyes covered by his arm, ankles crossed, looking relaxed and unbothered. So cute. 

Muichiro moves to the other side of Tanjiro, right next to Genya’s sleeping form. So entranced by the man next to him, he completely misses the look Tanjiro sends his way. 

He eats his food in silence, listening to everyone speak, but not taking his eyes off Genya. He looks adorable. He never thought he would get to see the guy in such a state. His mouth was slightly open, releasing tiny snores. He looked so relaxed. So soft. He just wanted to reach over and touch him. See if his hands, his skin was as soft as it looked. 

As he finished his lunch, the bell signaling the end of their break period rang but Genya didn’t get up, didn’t move at all. 

“You two have class together next right?” Muichiro looked up to Tanjiro. He stood off to the side, adjusting the straps of his bag on his shoulders. 

“Yes, we have Chemistry next.” Muichiro looks back down to Genya who is still asleep.

“You can wake him then since you’re both going in the same direction. I have class on the other side of campus so I can’t stay.” Tanjiro gives one more look to Genya before giving a sweet smile to Muichiro. “I’ll see you two later.” He waves as he takes off, leaving Muichiro with a very sleepy Genya next to him. 

He wasn’t sure what the appropriate way to wake a sleeping person was, especially a person he’s still getting to know. But he does know one thing, he likes to make Genya blush. So he kneels. Genya’s head practically in between his knees as he leans over and lets his long locks flow forward and brush over Genya’s face. And boy does he get a response. 

Genya’s eyes grow wide, face instantly turning red. He doesn’t move. Muichiro doesn’t move. The wind being the only movement between them, causing Muichiro’s hair to flow across Genya’s face again. Completely unaware of the panic setting in Genya’s bones.

“Hi…” Genya mutters, words too difficult to form. Muichiro moves, leaning down even further, closer to Genya’s blushing face. He can’t stop it. Does he even want it to stop? Just as his nose grazes against Genya’s, he speaks, “It’s time to get up, Genya. Class is going to start soon.” And then Muichiro rises, back to his knees and then to a standing position. He looks down at Genya’s frozen form. He smirks at the boy, then begins to walk away. 

Genya doesn’t move. The bell rings. He’s late to class.

When Genya finally makes it to class, he’s ten minutes late. He’s reprimanded but he doesn’t care. The only thing he can think about now is the boy sitting to his right. The air around them is sizzling. The classroom is boiling like an oven, and he can’t breathe. His nose is on fire. The same nose that touched Muichiro’s. He feels like he’s sweating. He’s worried that he might stink. He’s panicking for sure. He can’t sit still and it’s annoying him. So much for wanting to appear cool and collected in front of Muichiro. 

When he walked to class, the whole interaction played in his head over and over again. Genya has a crush. On Muichiro. And it’s serious. He’s never felt like this about anyone before and he’s not quite sure how to go about it. What does Muichiro like? What does he hate? Is he open to trying new things or is he more of keeping things simple? Should he ask Tanjiro? He would be the best bet but they’re cousins. Is he ready to let Tanjiro know that he has a thing for Muichiro and that Muichiro may have a thing for him? What about Sanemi? He can ask Sanemi. His brother helped him before. But his brother doesn’t have a lot of relationship experience but it's better than nothing. 

Genya’s thoughts are running rampant, not being able to focus on anything until warmth envelopes his arm. He looks down immediately, seeing a smaller hand grasping lightly. He slowly looks up to the boy he's been thinking of non stop since he sat down. Muichiro is looking at him. His once mirthful eyes now show a hint of concern. Genya can't help but turn to face him. His free hand moving and covering Muichiro’s

“What’s wrong?” he says quietly, not wanting to attract attention. Muichiro giggles, smiling, his eyes now playful. “That’s what I was asking you. The teacher gave us a project and we have to work in teams. I asked if it was okay if we teamed up but you didn’t answer.” Genya feels like an idiot. Too wrapped up in his thoughts that he didn’t know that an assignment had been given out.

“If you don’t want to work with me, I understand. I'm sure you already have a partner in mind.” Muichiro’s smile fades, removing his hand from Genya’s arm. A space between them once again. Muichiro thinks his silence was disinterest in being partners. 

“Wait- no that’s…I mean...” Genya scrunches his face in frustration. Not able to get his words out. He stops, closes his eyes and takes a deep breath.

“I would love to be partners with you. I normally don’t have a partner. People don’t really want to team up with me so I was a little shocked that you wanted to.” Genya said a lot more than he meant to. But as soon as he finished, a smile returned on Muichiro’s face.

“Really? Why wouldn’t anyone want to be your partner? You’re so smart.” At that comment, Muichiro bumps Genya’s arm with his own. The small smile turning to a smirk.

“I can’t wait to spend more time with you Genya. Library after school?” Muichiro begins to rise from his chair, signaling the end of their class. Genya is vibrating. Muichiro’s arm bump, his smirk, him saying that he’s smart, wanting to know him more…. It's so much so quickly and Genya is losing it. He just stares at Muichiro, words gone and simply nods. 

Muichiro slings his satchel over his shoulder, then faces Genya directly, stepping until he’s right in front of Genya, standing between his open legs. He leans in, hair covering their faces, noses so close. He whispers, “Then I’ll see you later, Genya Shinazugawa.”  He does nothing as he watches Muichiro walk away. Genya is an oven.

Muichiro is over the moon. What happened with Genya at lunch making him giddy. He just needs his last class before he can spend the rest of the afternoon with Genya. He walks through the halls of the east building, his arms bringing his books at his chest close to his face, hiding his smile to all the students he passes. This smile is just for him. 

He makes it to his class, sitting in the back row furthest from the door, a spot he's noticed that Genya favors in his classes. Placing his books down, he gets ready to sit when suddenly his books go flying across his desk, looking quickly at the student responsible. Red and yellow hair. 

“What do you want Rengoku?” Muichiro speaks, narrowing his eyes. Senjuro stands with a sinister smirk on his face, arms crossed with his two friends, his henchmen, behind him.

“You should watch where you're going Tokito. A lot of people are not very welcoming to trash in their classroom. I’m nice enough to tell you that to your face. Watch where you're going.” he shoulder checks Muichiro before making his way to the front of the class. Muichiro rolls his eyes and he bends down to pick up his books. 

“Mui!” Muichiro jolts his head up from his crouched position, looking to the classroom door. Genya is at the door, waving before walking in, bowing to the teacher before running to Muichiro.

“Genya, what are you doing here?” Muichiro stands, flushed as the boy walks to him, Genya grabbing his hand before placing a booklet there softly.

“You forgot your workbook. I was gonna give it to you after class but noticed it was for this class so I thought you would need it.”

Muichiro smiles, shy, and grateful at Genya's consideration. Genya’s hands don't move, holding Muichiro’s softly.

“Oh…thank you. You didn't have to…” Muichiro notices then that the classroom has gone deadly silent. He looks away from Genya and around the classroom. Everyone is staring. Especially one. One is raging, fuming at the exchange between Genya and himself. Senjuro’s face is a flame. Brows scrunched together, angry. His hands rounding into fists. Muichiro's free hand grabs Genya's wrist and starts to pull him away. Wanting to escape everyone's eyes as soon as possible.

“I have five minutes, let's go outside?”

Genya smiles and nods. Oblivious to the people around them. He pulls them away and into the hall that's slowly emptying out. 

Genya lets himself be pulled, loving the feel of Muichiro's hands on his wrist. He's buzzing and he can't stop smiling.

They stand in the hall, facing each other, both with shy smiles on their faces, still holding each other's hands.

“Hi…” Genya whispers. Muichiro chuckles at his words. Looking down, bashful, whispering in return, “Hi.” He feels Genya’s thumb move against his hand. Rubbing softly against his skin. It sends shivers throughout his body. 

Suddenly, a thought came to Muichiro. He looks up at Genya, curious as to his answer. “How did you know what class I had right now?” 

Genya turns an impossible shade of red, almost purple. How does he admit that over the last few weeks since they've met that he's learned the boys class schedule? It wasn't meant to be stalkerish. During their time of not speaking, he learned his schedule, to try and meet him and talk things out. He just never had the courage to fall through with it. “I…Well I just…I ran… into uh-I ran into Tanjiro! Just now. He told me what class you had and I came here straight away.” He can tell that Muichiro didn't believe a word he said. He buries his face in his free hand. Embarrassed. “Uggghhh Mui, I'm sorry. I know it sounds weird and I understand if you feel uncomfortable-” the final bell signals through the halls.

Muichiro steps forward, chest to chest with Genya, forcing him to look down at the smaller boy. “Better get going Genya. You're late for Calculus.” Muichiro steps back, a smirk plastered on his face, turning quickly and sauntering back into his class.

Genya watches the boy leave, biting his lip, an eyebrow quirking up. He chuckles at the boy and his brazen flirting and his ability to cause Genya to turn into a furnace with any little movement he does. He definitely doesn't mind watching him leave though. With a view like that, how can he?

Class is over and Muichiro is a wreck. Muichiro wouldn't ever call himself bold with actions. With words, yes. He’s always been one to speak his mind, even if it got him in trouble. Actions though, that was a different story. Yuichiro was always the one to quickly respond to anything through action. Always one to step forward first in any situation. But not Muichiro. Muichiro was quick with words but slow with physically acting. Which is why he is so surprised at his own actions when it comes to Genya. But he can't help it. The boy just seems to bring something out of him he didn't know he had. Another side of him left unexplored. Something he gets to play with for the first time in his life. 

He starts to rise from his desk, slowly placing his books into his satchel, watching as the students filed out of the classroom. 

“Hey Tokito!” Muichiro lets out a frustrated sigh, rolling his eyes in irritation. He held back from dashing out of the classroom for this very reason. He saw Senjuro’s reaction earlier. It was obviously jealousy. How could it be anything but? The boy spent the entire class time shooting dangers at Muichiro.

“What do you want, Rengoku?” Muichiro looks up to the only student left in the class. They're alone, and Muichiro doesn't have a good feeling about it. Genya is waiting for him. 

“What's the deal with you and Genya?” The boy stands in front of him, arms crossed, eyes full of rage. Muichiro’s eyebrow ticks at the sound of Genya’s name coming from his mouth. “Genya? You two on a first name basis?” Muichiro starts to move forward and around Senjuro, wanting to get out of the room and away from him. Senjuro has proved in the past he isn't opposed to getting physical.

“Well I would hope so with our history.” Senjuro smirks, hip jutting out, giving an air of flirtation at the thought of Genya. The action causes Muichiro to stop, his blood boiling instantly. 

Do he and Genya have history together? Were they involved at one point? Him and Genya never really talked about that, or anything at all for that matter. He doesn't really know anything about Genya. So him having an ex is more than likely. But he can't help the hurt that flows through him. He's never had anyone, and he assumed the same with Genya. Him hoping to experience things for the first time together had filled his mind until this moment. 

Muichiro finally looks away, finally continuing his walk to the classroom door. “Whatever you think is going on between him and I is none of your business. Now if you'll excuse me.”

Muichiro is suddenly pushed hard from behind. Not having enough time to brace for impact, he hits the door frame, his shoulder taking the brunt of the impact. He hisses in pain before turning to Senjuro. He expected the boy to sneer at him, laugh at his pain. But his expression is of panic. Muichiro's confused, he’s about to speak when suddenly there's shuffling behind him.

“What the hell are you doing?”

Muichiro's eyes grow wide. He turns, eyes moving to the person behind him. Genya.

“What were you doing?” Genya moves forward, arm moving in front of Muichiro, pushing him behind his tall frame. Protective.

“Ge-Genya I-I wasn't…I wasn't doing anything I swear. I was moving with Muichiro and I tripped. I didn't mean to push him. It was an accident I swear.” Senjuro is panicking. Obviously throwing out any excuse that might work in his favor. Genya wasn't buying it.

Genya turns to Muichiro, face and voice softening. “Mui, is that true? Is that what happened?” Muichiro can't answer, he just wants to leave. He doesn't want to be here anymore. Doesn't want trouble with anyone. He nods.

“It was an accident.” Genya nods, taking Muichiro's word. He fully turns to him, hand moving to Muichiro's shoulder. “You okay? Do you need anything? We can skip studying and go to the nurse?” Muichiro shakes his head. “I just want to go home if that's okay?” Genya nods immediately, then turning to the other boy in the room.

“You can go now.” His voice is stern, face hard. Senjuro looks small, arms crossed holding himself like he's been hurt. He takes a step before beginning to speak, hand reaching for Genya. “Genya I-”

“You can leave” Genya begins to turn to Senjuro, his tone turning deep, scaring the boy who then proceeds to hurry out of the classroom.

Genya turns back to Muichiro who is holding his shoulder, obviously in pain. His face is red, a light sweat on his brow. Genya saw him fall into the doorframe. Fall into it hard. He didn't see what happened before. But he knows that Muichiro isn't clumsy, so seeing him fall startled him. But when he saw the other boy in the room, a sneer on his face, he knew immediately what happened. Memory going back to Muichiro's first day. A boy with red and yellow hair had pushed him. Genya couldn't help it. Couldn't help but get protective. He wasn't even supposed to be there. He was supposed to go to the library to meet Muichiro but decided to go to his classroom to pick him up instead.

Genya's hands reach out, one pulling Muichiro's hand away from his shoulder, the other softly caressing it.

“Ready?”

Muichiro watches Genya's movements. It's intimate, caring. Muichiro grabs the hand on his shoulder.

“Genya…Thank you. For being here. For protecting me. No one has ever done that for me. Not since…” Muichiro stops, feeling like now isn't the right time and space to share something so deep.

“I’ll be here whenever you need me. I promise.” Muichiro looks up again, Genya looking straight into his eyes. Genya wants to close the space, pull him in close. Pull him in like he’s been trying to but never seeming to be able to. He tries again. 

“Mui…” Genya whispers, hand pulling Muichiro in.

“HEY!” both boys pull apart, eyes flying to the classroom door. There stands Inosuke, boar mask resting on top of his head. “What are YOU TWO still doing here?” He eyes them suspiciously, both hands resting on each side of the doorframe. 

Neither boy speaks, neither one moves. Not sure what to do. 

“Inosuke! What did I say about running off in the middle of practice?! What are you staring at?” Aoi appears at his side, fists on her hips, looking two seconds from blowing up at the young boy next to her. Her heated stare moves to Muichiro and Genya, both standing up straight, eyes wide, hands by their sides, both afraid to move. “Oh it's you two. Aren't you two supposed to be somewhere making goo-goo eyes at each other? Get out of here!” No second was wasted as both boys shot out of the classroom, running into the hall.

Chapter Text

Both boys run into the hallway finally coming to a stop near the building entrance. They're out of breath, redface and sweating. So much has happened in such a short period of time and neither one has had a second to process it. 

As they stand, Genya notices immediately that Muichiro's hand has reached for his shoulder again, rubbing it clearly in pain. Not sure how to help but wanting to relieve any kind of stress for him, Genya reaches for the satchel still hanging from his body.

“Here let me help.” Genya moves forward, not waiting for permission, pulling the strap and hoisting the bag over his own. Nodding as Muichiro thanked him. They stand there in awkward silence. Neither wanting to part, but neither wanting to stay at school after the continued interruptions.

“If you're still wanting to study, we can go to my house? My mom isn't home so it'll just be us.” Muichiro doesn't look up as he speaks. He knows what his words are suggesting. Alone. They will be completely alone together. It's been noted by both boys that their moments together have been continuously plagued by interruptions. First by their friends and now by unwanted and unwelcomed students. 

Genya wants to say yes immediately. Almost did. But he spots Muichiro rubbing his shoulder again. 

“But you're hurt. You should be resting. We can start studying tomorrow if you want. The project isn't due for another 2 weeks. We have time.” Genya is regretting his words as soon as they come out. He doesn't want to wait. They have the perfect opportunity to get to know one another now, uninterrupted. And the look on Muichiro's face makes him regret his words the most.

Muichiro can't get upset with Genya. He's right. He's hurt, but he was also hoping that Genya would still want to spend time with him. Maybe even want to take care of him. It was stupid wishful thinking. Genya being protective of him didn't mean Muichiro suddenly meant something. They were friends. Just friends. He was just hoping that Genya shared the same feelings of wanting more. 

“You're right. I should just go home. Thank you again for everything. I guess we can continue this tomorrow.” Muichiro finally speaks, a ball in his throat causing his voice to be hoarse, deeper than normal. He finally looks up, hand out, signaling to Genya that he wants his bag. But when he does, he winces unintentionally showing the pain he was in. He drops his arm, his other hand moving to his shoulder again.

Genya jumps forward at Muichiro's hiss. “Muichiro, you need to go to the nurse. They should still be here since the clubs are still in. Come one, I'll walk you.” 

Muichiro shakes his head. He doesn't need anyone's help. He just wants to go home at this point and just sleep this day away. “I’m fine Genya. I just want to leave.” 

“Muichiro Tokito…” Muichiro's eyes widen at the sound of his full name coming from Genya's lips. He brings his head up slowly, finding the violet eyes he loves staring into. They watch him, clearly concerned but also with a level of authority in them.

“You are clearly in pain, and as your senior, I am telling you to go to the nurse. And if you won't go willingly, I’ll lift you over my shoulder and carry you if I have to.” Genya is stern with his words. Trying so hard to keep his composure. But the look Muichiro has is comical to say the least. His eyes are huge, pupils blown, mouth slightly agape. “So what'll it be?” 

Muichiro couldn't help it. If anyone asked him why he did what he did, he would say he was clearly out of his mind. Turned on. He was turned on, is what he was. Genya's authoritative voice and words causing him to go mute and lose self-control. All he was able to do in response was hold his arms up, the only word in his head: Uppies. He was asking Genya for uppies.

Genya bursts out in laughter at Muichiro's response. Was he expecting a heated exchange of words? Yes. Was he prepared to hoist the boy over his shoulder if he didn't want to go? Yes. What he was not expecting was no fight at all and the boy willingly asking to be lifted up and carried to the nurse. Cute. He continues to laugh quietly as he walks forward, right into Muichiro's space, grabbing lightly onto the arms in the air. He rubs his hands from the boy's elbows to his shoulders, Muichiro's hands landing at the nape of Genya’s neck. “Do you really want me to carry you there?” His voice is soft, playful. His hands continue to travel down Muichiro's sides before settling on his waist.

Muichiro nods vehemently. His bottom lip jutting out. “Mhmm. I'm injured.” Muichiro likes this. Playful Genya. Silly Genya. A side he feels he hasn't been able to really see. Genya chuckles again as he lets go of Muichiro, backing up before turning around and bending down slightly. Muichiro isn't sure what he's doing. So he just stands there and watches.

Genya turns his head, looking over his shoulder. “Well, hop on. I'll give you a piggy back lift to the nurse.” Muichiro giggles as he moves forward. “Okay. But be careful with me. I’m injured, you know.” Genya chuckles again “Oh really? I hadn't heard. And here I thought we were doing this just for fun” 

Muichiro braces himself, arms wrapped around Genya's neck, his legs slowly finding their way to his waist to be met with Genya's arms, holding him close. “Hang on” Then Genya lifts, standing to his full height causing Muichiro to yelp. Genya laughs again. “Not used to being up this high right?” Muichiro slaps his shoulder before laughing. “I don't think anyone would. My scream is clearly justified. Anyone would with your height you giant tree.”

He's enjoying this, the close proximity to Genya. Feeling his laughter vibrating through his body. This carefree back and forth with one another. He hopes they can have more.

Genya and Muichiro sit in the Health room inside the school’s main building. The nurse stepping away after assessing Muichiro, filling forms before they could leave. Stretches and pain medication were recommended as well as rest. Otherwise Muichiro was in good health.

After twenty minutes of straight sitting, Muichiro’s butt was starting to hurt from the hard wooden seats. But it wasn't so bad with Genya by his side. But they were quiet. The carefree mood from before no longer present. Just awkwardness again.

“So Tanjiro’s cousin huh? I’m sorry about that.” Genya laughs, finally breaking through the awkward tension between them.

Muichiro smirks at his comment. “Yeah. I love Tanjiro and Nezuko. But they are….odd beans that’s for sure. But I think that’s why people like them so much. Foolishly optimistic. Protective of each other. And so trusting. I love those qualities about them. I think some of their friends share those qualities too.” Muichiro takes a peek at Genya, a little smirk appearing on his face.

Genya nods at Muichiro’s assessment. But his cheeks turn red at the last sentence. Was Muichiro talking about him? 

Muichiro continues,”Honestly, I love how they are. They’re sweet and good people. And if it wasn’t for Tanjiro, I don’t think I would’ve ever gotten through the death of my brother. 

Genya stops his movements. Eyes going wide, body stiff in shock at Muichiro’s words. He had no idea. He’s only known the boy for a couple of weeks or so. Not really conversing outside of their group or their playful antics in class. Genya shuffles closer to Muichiro, wanting to be present, show support. 

“I’m sorry. I had no idea. Um…If you don’t mind me asking....What’s your brother's name? How long has it been since..” 

Muichiro smiles. Genya wanting to know his name, saying it in the present tense and not past, it makes his chest warm. “Yuichiro. His name is Yuichiro. And it's been four years. Five in December. It’s not like in the movies, you know. People don’t just ‘get over it’. I still feel it. All the time. The grief. But because of Tanjiro…and Nezuko of course, I’m actually able to function again. We were twins. It never crossed my mind that we would ever be apart. Especially not like this.”

Genya listens, watches him the entire time. Not wanting to interrupt even for a second. When Muichiro goes silent, Muichiro looks at him, and Genya finally sees it. The eyes that can be mistaken for vacant were never vacant at all. Just lonely. The disassociation... longing. Longing for a person that was once a part of his soul. Genya understands, at least just a little bit. 

Genya reaches for his hand, touching softly. “I’m sorry. I can’t imagine how much you miss him.”

Muichiro gives a sad smile. “So much. Everyday. It never goes away. But I know that's how much I love him.” Genya watches as mirth slowly builds in his eyes again, his smile on his face turning genuine and happy.

“Thank you, Genya, for listening to me. People usually try to make me feel better by saying things. It doesn’t help and it honestly annoys me. But you just listened. Thank you” Muichiro gives Genya's hand a squeeze, leaning in to bump their shoulders.

Genya’s face blushes at the action, leaning in, leaving their bodies pressed together. “Yeah, of course. If you just ever want someone to just listen…I’m all ears.”

He chuckles nervously. The smile on Muichiro’s face never leaving. Directed straight at him. God he’s pretty. His smile is small. Just for him and no one else. It’s intimate and Genya isn’t sure how much longer he can take it.

“Should I ask for an update? I mean, we’ve been sitting here for a while. It's getting kind of late. I'm not sure what time you need to be home.” Muichiro doesn't want their moment to end, but he knows they can't stay at school forever.

Genya shrugs his shoulders, “Any time is fine with me. My brother’s working so it’s not like anyone will notice if I’m not home.”

Muichiro cocks his head slightly at Genya’s words but doesn’t ask for more. There’s a story there and he’s sure when Genya is ready, he’ll tell him.

Muichiro leans his head in, placing it on Genya’s shoulder, relaxing into him, hand holding tightly. “Okay, for study sessions we go to my house. That way you're close to home and we get to be comfortable together. As much as I like sitting here with you, these seats suck. My butt hurts” They laugh out loud, the sound reverberating in the small room. 

After school study sessions started as a one off for their two-person assignment. Then a couple of assignments here and there came up with extra studying needed, and pretty soon, that led to them studying together every day after school. Muichiro never saw himself as a try hard. He didn’t see Genya as one either. Both seemed to understand the material pretty easily, so the study sessions seemed unnecessary. But Muichiro wasn’t about to admit that. Since suggesting his house for sessions, Muichiro and Genya quickly built a routine. Meeting each other after school at the entry gates and heading to his house together. Also making it routine to stop at the local Family Mart for some snacks. That’s how he learned that Genya loves watermelon and Melon Cream Soda. When asked why those were his go to snacks, Genya responded vaguely about his mother and watermelons and that was it. He didn’t push. 

Now, he waits. Waiting longer than normal by the school gates for him. It’s not like him to be late. He internally shrugs, leaning against the school gate, head lolling back to rest. He would’ve appreciated a heads-up. Muichiro lifts his head, a thought coming forward.

“Huh…I don’t even have his number” he whispers.

“Who’s number?” Muichiro jolts lightly, not enough for anyone around to notice, but apparently Genya did. Genya chuckles at his reaction, hand coming up to the side of his head, rubbing lightly at his buzzed side. “Sorry, I didn’t mean to sneak up on you. But…who’s number did you need?”

Genya had been running late. An unwelcome interaction between him and Senjuro started when he exited his last class. The boy trapped him, talking nonsense about him and Muichiro making up and on good terms. Obviously hoping to get on Genya’s good side. But the conversation turned flirtatious. One sided. And Genya got really uncomfortable. Especially when Senjuro grabbed his hand. held it and wouldn't let go. Genya tried his best to pull his hand away, especially when students started staring at them. The last thing he wanted was another misunderstanding between him and Muichiro. When Genya was finally able to pull away, he sped walked out of the hallway.

As soon as he saw Muichiro, he relaxed, going back to a casual walk. Muichiro was completely unaware when he arrived. He heard the words that came from Muichiro’s mouth. Not completely sure of what spurred the thought, he decided to ask. Maybe he could help him...or maybe he could learn the name of the person occupying Muichiro’s thoughts. His body stiffened momentarily at the thought. But he let it go. 

Muichiro looked at Genya and eased his shoulders. “Took you long enough. I was beginning to think you ditched me.” Muichiro bent down to grab his school bag. It was a little heavier than normal due to the amount of homework assigned for the weekend. 

“Here, let me” Genya muttered, bending down and grabbing the school bag from Muichiro’s hands. Muichiro stilled, cheeks beginning to flush, stammering as he spoke, “Wha- no you don’t- you don’t have to. I can-”

Genya hikes the bag over his shoulder, smiling at Muichiro. “It’s not a big deal, really. It barely weighs a thing. Shall we?” Genya turns and begins to walk away from the school gates. Leaving a slightly flustered Muichiro trailing behind him. 

Before they can make it very far, a young boy calling out Genya’s name stops them in their tracks before running towards them. Senjuro. The boy stands right in front of Genya. Breathing heavily, looking up at Genya with big eyes and a smile. Muichiro doesn’t like it. His eyes narrow, disliking how the boy is disrupting their time together.

“Senjuro…hey. Uh...what’s up? We’re heading out.” Genya sounds anxious, immediately setting off alarms to Muichiro. Was there really something between them? Muichiro feels a tightness in his chest at the thought, but he knows that Genya wants nothing to do with Senjuro. Muichiro steps forward, putting himself right up against Genya. He may be small, but he knows he can intimidate a person easily. Senjuro sees the movement, looks at Muichiro, up and down before snickering and looking back at Genya with the same big innocent smile.

Did he just…snicker? Muichiro feels the heat in his body start to boil. His hands clench, his shoulders start to hunch. If he was any angrier, he swears he would start growling. He begins to move forward ready to put Senjuro in his place when an arm suddenly appears around his shoulders, holding him in place right up against Genya’s side. Muichiro was so angry that he completely ignored the fact that he wasn’t alone. He looked up to his left to Genya. He was still looking forward to Senjuro. The look on Genya’s face was hard, stern. Muichiro turned to Senjuro, noting that the boy no longer had a smile on his face.

“Like I said, we’re heading out. If you need help with anything during school hours, I’d be happy to help. Until then, I’ll see you around.” Genya then shuffles around Senjuro with Muichiro in hand. They continue to walk in the direction of his house. He continues to look up at Genya. He looks irritated, but his hold on Muichiro is gentle but firm. It didn’t seem like he was going to let go any time soon, and Muichiro sure wasn’t going to complain. They walked together, side to side for what seemed like a good five minutes until Genya stopped walking, Muichiro following suit. Genya slowly let Muichiro go.

“I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to keep holding on to you like that. I was just frustrated. That kid just doesn’t know how to take no for an answer.” Genya kept his eyes focused on the ground, furrowed as he spoke.

“Genya. Do you and Rengoku have history together? Since last week, he’s made it seem as such.” Muichiro asks innocently, or as innocently as he could pull off. He wants the whole story but doesn’t want to seem desperate for details. He can't help but look away, embarrassed at his need to know, his insecurity showing. His hands come together, rubbing incessantly with nerves, unsure of the answer he will receive.

Genya sighs, hand reaching up to the back of his neck rubbing as he explained. “I don’t really know that kid. I don’t think I’ve ever talked to him before until you showed up. I was late earlier cause he cornered me. He went on about how you two were chill with each other and friends and stuff. But then he grabbed me, trying to get flirty. Asking for my number and asking if we would hang out some time. I honestly don’t know what his deal is, but I don’t like pushy people. And I don’t give my number out to just anyone. So, I just said later and left. I didn’t think he would come running after me. So, when he asked again right now if we could hang out, I got upset. I saw the way he looked at you and I didn’t like it. I got protective, territorial. So, I grabbed you. I hope I didn’t hurt you.”

Genya stops his rant, looking up from the ground to Muichiro’s face. He was expecting the boy to be upset at being manhandled. He was prepared to receive words of not touching him again. What he wasn’t expecting was Muichiro’s face to be flushed, eyes big and bright, and him biting his bottom lip. Genya gulps. Fuck he’s cute. 

Muichiro is, for lack of a better term, turned on. Genya got territorial. Of Muichiro. He saw the way Senjuro looked at him and got upset and wanted to protect him. That’s why he put his arm around him. Muichiro's skin was on fire. His whole body was an oven and all he wanted to do was loosen his collar to breathe. But he knew that wasn’t the reason he couldn’t breathe, that wasn’t the reason he was overheated. It was Genya. Genya and his protective, territorial nature. Fucking hot. Muichiro liked the boy. A lot. He always liked to tease Genya, he liked making him blush. He liked him. But this type of like…. This was different. This was feral. Muichiro didn’t snap out of his internal dialogue until he felt Genya’s hand on his head. 

“-ou feeling okay?” Genya was speaking to him, and he didn’t know for how long.

“Sorry, I got distracted. But thank you. For defending my honor, I guess.” Muichiro giggles and smiles at Genya, who smiles sheepishly in return.

“So…shall we?” Genya points in the direction of Muichiro’s house. Muichiro nods, walking alongside him. Bumping against his frame the entire way.

Genya’s face is hot and red. After his small confession, Muichiro found and did everything possible to touch him. At first, he thought it was an accident. They’re walking together, it’s bound to happen. But when they got to the Family Mart, Muichiro grabbed his hand and never let go. And Genya just let it happen. It wasn’t like before with Senjuro. Senjuro made him uncomfortable. Whether Muichiro was there or not, he would’ve reacted the same. Muichiro being there just made him even more upset. No one disrespects his friends. Friends. They’re just friends. This hand holding, and body bumping doesn’t mean anything because they’re just friends. Right? But he allows it to happen. Just enjoying the moment. 

Genya grabs a basket with his left hand and his right, never letting go of Muichiro’s. They take the store lane by lane as they usually do. His hand in Muichiro stays put, fingers comfortably interlaced. As Muichiro continues to add items into the basket, Genya sees his favorite drink ahead and begins to move forward, slowly letting Muichiro’s hand go. But he jolts to a stop. Hands find their way to his wrist, holding with an iron grip. Genya looks at their hands, then at Muichiro’s face. Muichiro stares at him with an annoyed expression, his feet planted firmly on the ground. Not budging. 

“What-Whats wrong?” Genya is surprised at the look he is receiving. Did he do something? Did he say something wrong without realizing it?

When Muichiro sees that Genya is not going anywhere, he relaxes his stance but not letting go of his arm. Where was he going? Muichiro thought holding hands was fine. Why is he letting go? His annoyance turns into insecurity. Did Genya not want to hold his hand? Would he rather hold hands with Senjuro? Muichiro didn't even bother to ask if it was okay.

“Why are you letting go of my hand?” When Muichiro spoke, his tone was soft, sad. He didn’t mean for his words to sound so pathetic. 

Genya’s face softens. He turns to Muichiro, placing the basket down and taking a hand on his wrist into his. He bends down slightly, as close to Muichiro’s level as possible. Bringing both their hands to his chest, pulling Muichiro in close. His tone is soft. “Hey…I wasn’t going anywhere without you, I promise. I was just going to grab my drink really quick. That’s it. I was going to come right back. Mui, I’m sorry.” 

Genya looks at the smaller boy with a sweet smile. Noting how cute he looked when he got bashful. Muichiro looks down, facing away from Genya. Without putting too much thought into it, Genya lifts his hand placing it under Muichiro’s chin lifting his face up to face him. When he was sure he had his full attention, he let go, hand moving to the side of the boy's face, combing a bit of stray hair back behind his ear, then keeping his hand just there. Gently cradling his face.

Muichiro can barely breathe. His heart is racing, and he doesn’t even realize that their bodies are moving closer together, hands still holding tightly. Muichiro continues to gaze into his purple irises, slowly moving onto his toes, lifting himself up and closer to the face of the boy in front of him.

He starts to whisper, “Genya…” Genya holds him tightly, his face so close, foreheads touching, noses bumping, lips….

“GENYA!! MUICHIRO!! What are you-” The two boys jump away from each other. Hands letting one another go, feet apart. They both look in the direction the voice came from. Standing there with a sheepish smile was Tanjiro, knowing full well what he accidentally walked into. A second later, Nezuko turns the corner with a basket in her hand.

“Hiiiii…sorry to interrupt! I was just surprised to see you two…together.” He chuckles as Nezuko smiles and waves. 

Genya stutters in response, shuffling in place, “It’s fine. We were just-we were just grabbing some stuff for studying today.”

Tanjiro stares, brow twitching, clearly showing that he did not believe his answer at all. “Studying...”

The two boys nodded at Tanjiro’s response. Tanjiro laughs, boisterous and clearly forced. “Well, whatever helps you pass, I guess. Anyway, see you later! Come on Nezuko!” Tanjiro grabs Nezuko and rushes away.

They stand in the middle of the aisle, shocked and embarrassed. Genya coughs into his fist lightly then bends down to pick up the forgotten basket. “Um, let me grab my drink and we can head out, yeah?” 

Muichiro nods without looking at Genya, still in his daze. He’s horrified. Just stares ahead at where the brother-sister duo stood. The last thing he needs is for them to tell their mom, then their mom will tell his mom and then his mom will want to know about Genya. Muichiro is spiraling. But Genya returns, feeling a hand on the small of his back, grounding him. Despite everything that happened, he relishes the feeling. 

They move to the counter and watch the attendant ring the items up. “Oh wait!” Muichiro exclaims before bolting away, down an aisle, then disappearing. Genya waits, not really sure what they could’ve possibly forgotten. Muichiro turns the corner and throws a tray on the counter to the attendant. Watermelon. Muichiro went back to get Genya his watermelon. His heart is full. His whole body feels full. With what? He’s not sure but whatever it is, it’s the best feeling in the world.

Genya grabs the bag from the attendant, nodding thank you before moving towards the exit with Muichiro. But before they take off, Genya moves to Muichiro’s side, grabbing his hand in his again and leading them away.

Both boys sit at the dining room table in the Tokito home. Muichiro’s mom isn’t home, leaving them alone. If Genya’s head wasn't in the clouds, he would be a little nervous. It’s not like they haven’t been in the home alone before, but the amount of affection being given to each other has never happened before. He should be nervous, but he can’t be. He can’t help the amount of joy in his heart at this moment. 

They’re seated close. Their two seats huddled together. Genya’s legs spread so Muichiro’s seat is tucked in between them. Muichiro’s back laying lazily against his chest. Genya’s arm relaxed against the back of the smaller boy's seat, chin resting on Muichiro’s shoulder. The silence is comfortable. Muichiro speaking every now and then, looking at Genya as he asks a question, waiting for Genya to turn to face him to answer just to have their noses meet. They’ll blush, smile, then look away. That’s what’s been happening for the past 30 minutes. Until Genya’s stomach growls. Muichiro laughs.

“Aww are you hungry?” Muichiro smiles and scrunches his nose at Genya. It’s endearing and Genya loves it.

“Yeah, sorry. That was rude” 

“Genya, that’s nothing to apologize for. Let me get our snacks.” Muichiro rubs Genya’s thigh lightly as he speaks, lifting himself from his seat and walking to the fridge. He retrieves their items and grabs some utensils on the way back to the table. He places everything down and opens the tray of watermelon before sitting. Genya waits for the tray to find its way over to him, his favorite treat. But then Muichiro grabs a small chunk of watermelon and turns in his seat towards Genya, lifting the piece of fruit to Genya’s mouth. Genya sits still, confused.

“Genya.” Muichiro pulls him out of his thoughts, fingers still holding the piece of watermelon, waiting expectantly. 

“What?” was the only thing that Genya could say. Now he’s nervous. Is Muichiro really expecting him to…

“Eat” Muichiro's voice is deep, commanding. He moves the piece closer to Genya’s mouth. The watermelon hits his lips gently. At Muichiro’s command, a shiver goes down his spine. He complies. Parting his lips and welcoming the sweet treat into his mouth. 

Muichiro has never been one for displays of affection. But Genya keeps bringing that side out of him. He didn’t think of hand feeding Genya until he sat at the table and opened the tray for them to eat. He tells Genya to eat, but the boy doesn’t move. Suddenly he starts to get anxious. He’s about to pull back when Genya’s lips part, taking the fruit into his mouth. His eyes widened, hand slightly shaking. He can’t control it. But then his shaking stops. Genya’s hand grabbing his wrist as he takes the fruit into his mouth. His lips pull in Muichiro’s fingers as he takes the piece in completely. Muichiro likes this, he likes this a lot, and he wants more of it. 

Muichiro’s fingers slip out from Genya’s lips, but Genya keeps them close. He doesn’t think that the moment was supposed to turn out this way. Muichiro was obviously just trying to feed him. But everything turned hot and heavy and it turned that way real quick. 

Genya begins to lean in, face getting closer. “Mui…” Muichiro responds, moving his free hand to Genya’s lap, rubbing up and down the boy's thigh, wanting to feel anything at this point. They can feel each other's breath on their lips. Muichiro is shaking in anticipation. Feeling Genya’s free hand travel around his waist and pull. Pulling him closer. Muichiro is breathing heavily, wanting to cry out for the boy in front of him. He moans his name, “Genya…”

“Muichiro I’m home!” The screeching of chairs is heard throughout the home. Muichiro’s mom enters the dining area unaware of the moment that was broken. “What have you boys been up to?”

Muichiro speaks first, eyes cast down onto his worksheet, “studying.”

Chapter Text

Genya gets home late that night. After his and Muichiro's constant flirting and unintentionally meeting Mrs. Tokito, Genya is exhausted. He slings his backpack on one of the empty hooks in the genkan and takes off his boots. He just wants to go straight to his room. He’s frustrated, sexually, and all he wants is to let it out.

“Hey. What the hell are you doing home so late? You just get out of school?” Genya jolts, surprised at his brother's presence. “Jesus Christ! What the fuck Aniki? What are you doing here?!” 

Sanemi doesn't take his eyes off his computer, a couple of books laying around him as he sits on the sofa. “I live here. I'm allowed to be here anytime I want. You on the other hand are supposed to be home by five. It's eight. So where were you?” Lifting his head, he stares at his brother, noticing how he instantly turns red.

“I was studying…” Genya's eyes face the ground, hand going to the back of his head rubbing his stiff neck, leg kicking the rug slightly. 

Sanemi arches his eyebrow. “Studying…is that what kids call it these days?” He continues his typing.

“Ewww Aniki stoooooppp” Genya makes his way to the living room plopping down on the other side of the sofa Sanemi is studying on. Genya stares at him, face scrunched as he watches him type. “Since when have you started wearing glasses?”

Sanemi stops his typing again. Slowly looking at his brother, eyes peering at him just above the simple framed lenses on his face. “Since I started going blind cause I've been working my ass to the bone to raise your ass, that's when.” Genya rolls his eyes, lolling his head back to rest on the sofa. 

“Aniki…I think the world is trying to cock block me.”

Sanemi suddenly closes his laptop, removing his glasses and pinching the bridge of his nose. “Jesus fucking Christ Genya. I’m trying to enjoy my only day off and study and you bring me this? Jesus. I miss when you were innocent and the only thing that gave you a hard on was your guitar.”

Genya's hands fly to his face, rubbing violently against his skin. “Ugggghhhhhh WHY ARE YOU LIKE THIS?!”

“YOU STARTED IT!”

They sit there in silence before Sanemi lets out a huff. “Have you…had sex before?” Genya remains silent, legs pulling together at the knee, hands now in his lap folding into one another, stressed and embarrassed. He shakes his head no. Sanemi lets out another huff. “Have you…ever watched porn?” Sanemi scrunches his face before letting out a frustrated sigh. “Fuck it, I know you do. I’ve done your fucking laundry. What I mean is, have you ever watched gay porn or even researched it?”

Genya is beyond red, his body is tense, ready to break. He nods this time before adding, "I've watched gay porn before. It would be stupid if I said no, wouldn't it? I also know that all that is fake. It's not real. But the way things are going between Muichiro and I, it's gonna happen and soon. I just don't know how to go about it. How to talk to him about it. If he has experience. Is it stupid to ask to get tested beforehand? I mean that's responsible right? How do I even get condoms and lube? How long does it take to prep someone? What's the best position for someone to lay in when doing it for the first time so I don't hurt them? What if he doesn't want to be the bottom? How do we have that conversation?!” Genya is freaking out. Words leaving his mouth a mile a minute. At some point his hands made their way to his hair and steadily began to yank at it. Sanemi leans forward, removing his hands, stopping him before Genya can hurt himself. He chuckles at his brother. Remembering Giyuu’s words, He may need you now more than ever. His needs when it comes to the world are just changing.

“Genya. Look at me.” The boy peers over quickly, his breathing out of control. “I need you to breathe. In slowly through your nose. Out slowly through your mouth. Just like we used to do. Come on. In…out…in…out…” Sanemi and Genya breathe together until Genya is more in control. 

“Look, I may not have all the answers to your questions, but I can help you with some of them. First, I'm glad you have a realistic view of sex and that you're aware that your relationship is progressing and you want to be prepared. And no, asking for testing before is not stupid. It is responsible. Just because you don't have experience with partners doesn't mean he doesn't either. A lot of your questions are meant for you two to ask each other. I think you'll find yourself feeling a lot better if you two talked about it. Maybe the nerves will ease a bit. As for the lube and condoms…I can get that for you. I have both if you want to just carry it around just in case”

“Ew no. I don't want your used shit. But…uh…thank you Aniki. I appreciate it. I feel a lot better.” Genya gives a small smile to his brother, who pats Genya on the back before moving back to his laptop. 

“As a payment for my amazing advice, make me a sandwich.” Genya rolls his eyes and groans but lifts himself up, making his way to the kitchen.

Sanemi begins typing, not moving when Genya calls him from the kitchen. “Hey Aniki…” Genya peeks his head out of the kitchen door frame, “Have you ever had sex with a guy before?” Curious as to why his brother has lube on him.

“Genya, I swear if I don't have my sandwich in my hand with a soda in ten seconds, I'm kicking your gay ass!”

Genya giggles as he goes about making dinner for him and his brother.

Sanemi lays in his bed. Replaying the conversation he had with his brother. Has he had experience with men before, yes. But has he ever actually had full on sex with one…no. But there is a certain man in mind he would love exploring that with. He then remembers that night with Giyuu in the restaurant parking lot. Giyuu gave him his number just in case Genya had questions, or if he had questions. And boy does he have questions. He partly gave his brother The Talk. But not having any real experience other than the odd make out session and hand job with a guy, he has no clue what to tell him. 

Sanemi reaches for his phone that was charging on his night stand. He checks the time. It's eleven. It's late. He's not sure if Giyuu is working tonight or if he's off. If he's busy…or busy with someone. He shakes his, ridding himself of the thought. But he has questions and he needs answers.

He scrolls through his contacts, finally landing on the contact with the little tidal wave and blue heart emoji with the name Tomioka Giyuu. Here goes nothing.

Sanemi: Hey Tomioka. Its Shinazugawa. You busy?

He tosses the phone on the bed, landing by his leg. Message sent. He lets out a breath he wasn't aware he was holding. Why is he nervous? He isn't nervous about asking questions. Everyone has questions. Is he nervous because he’s asking Giyuu? Is he nervous about the things Giyuu will tell him? Maybe.

He lies still, closing his eyes hoping to will away the nerves, sure that he won't hear back tonight, when he feels his bed vibrate, his phone receiving a new text. 

Tomioka Giyuu: Just finished studying. What's up?

Sanemi chuckles at the screen, reading the text. He would have perfect punctuation.

Sanemi: I was wondering if you're free to talk? I kinda just had ‘the talk’ with my brother and he had some questions

Sanemi: I know its late so we can talk later its fine

Sanemi lies and waits for a response. Internally calling himself an idiot for contacting him so late. What the hell can they talk about so late? He runs his hand roughly across his face, then tightening in his hair. He's stressing.

His phone vibrates…but it wont stop. Giyuu is…calling him. He rises quickly to a sitting position. The phone in front of his face. He's calling him, he has to answer but…he can't. Shit.

The vibrating stops. Sanemi's heart drops to his stomach. Fucking idiot. Fucking stupid idiot. He's two seconds from throwing his phone across the room due to his stupidity when it vibrates again. A text.

Tomioka Giyuu: Sorry. I should've asked if it was okay to call first. Is texting preferred? 

Before Sanemi can chicken out, he hits call, listening to the line ring before a deep but soft voice answers on the other side.

“Hi Shinazugawa. I apologize. I should've asked first if it was okay to call.” He sounds…alluring. Sexy. Now Sanemi knows why he couldn't answer the phone. Sanemi is turned on just by the sound of his voice. Jesus, he needs to get laid.

“No. No, it's my fault. I stepped out really quick and left my phone in my room. I'm sorry for bothering you. I wasn't sure if you were busy with work…or with someone.”

He hears Giyuu chuckle at his words. “I’m off. And as I've said before, there is no one Shinazugawa. If you don't believe me, you can come over and check my apartment.”

Sanemi plops back down on his bed, head hitting the pillow hard. His free hand flying to his face, fingers digging into his eyes. FUCK.

“Tomioka…” Sanemi warns. Giyuu chuckles again on the line. “Offer stands. Anyway, what happened with your brother? You said he had questions?”

Sanemi lets out a sigh. “Yeah. Questions that I really couldn't answer. Like asking about getting tested. How to possibly discuss expectations and boundaries I guess? How to…to get someone prepped?” He cringes at his last statement. He should've left that out.

“Like I don't have any resources for him. I don't know if you do. The last thing I want him going to is fucking porn. And I only have so much experience with guys…” Sanemi stops. Realizing he said too much in his rant to save face from his last statement.

Giyuu is silent on the line. Nothing can be heard. Sanemi pulls the phone away checking to see if he lost him. He's still there. “Uh…Tomioka?”

“I'm here.” Giyuu's voice is hoarse. Sending a chill down Sanemi's spine pooling in his groin. 

Giyuu clears his voice. “Umm…wanting to get tested is smart. There's a queer clinic in Tokyo that does free testing, no questions asked. They could even go together. Testing is quick. And they even give out free condoms there. They also have stuff on safe sex, crisis hotlines, counseling. As for the other stuff…I don't personally have anything to help but I know there are forums. But I'm sure the clinic would also have some stuff too.” His voice gets breather as he talks, his breathing almost labored. Sanemi has no idea what's happening but he can't help but take his free hand and snake it down his body landing on the front of his sweat pants. 

“Mmm. What about…talking to his boyfriend. Setting boundaries. Talking about what they want and what they…” he clears his own throat “wha-what they like?”

Sanemi hears Giyuu hum into the phone. So light, almost a whisper. “Well if people feel comfortable with each other, and respect each other, the talk will come naturally. Especially when you start experimenting with someone, sharing what you like, how things feel, how you want to feel…” Sanemi is hard. Giyuu’s words have him rock hard. He doesn't miss his change in wording going from generic to pin pointing on you. What Sanemi likes. How Sanemi wants to feel. 

“How do you like to feel Shinazugawa? What kind of guy do you like?” Sanemi gets chills all over his body. Groaning into the phone. His hand slipping under the band of his sweat pants, palming himself, hissing at the feel. “Fuck Tomioka…do you really have to ask?”

He hears Giyuu’s breath, panting into his ear. “I want to hear you say it. What you want me to do to you.” he hears movement over the line, a deep sigh leaving Giyuu. He’s touching himself too.

“Tomio-Giyuu. I think about that mouth, your soft lips. How they feel. And that sharp tongue of yours. Jesus…How I want to shut you up sometimes by sticking my tongue down your throat.” He thinks it's too much. Too much too fast but he’s so fucking hard. His hand freeing his length, precum dripping down and lubing himself lightly. It's just enough. 

“Fuuuck Sanemi. That's so fucking sexy. It makes me so hard just thinking about it. What else do you want? How do you want me to make you feel good?”

“I think about those lips around my dick, taking me in until your whole mouth is full. I want to see you choke on it. I want to see how deep you can take it.”

“San-Sanem-mmmmmm” Giyuu groans into his ear, his moans now non stop, not shy about the sounds he releases. “Fuuuuccckk I wish you were here. I’m so hard. I'm so close. I just want you to touch me.” 

Sanemi quickens his pace up and down, hand rough against his own length. Coherent words no longer able to leave his lips, everything a mumble of pure want. “You’re so fuckin’ hot. I just want to fuck those pretty little lips. Fuck that pretty little ass of yours. Always a fucking tease at work. Looking at me like you’re begging me to fuck you over any fucking table.”

“I want you to…I want you. I want you to take me and fuck me until I can’t walk. Make me fucking sore.”

Sanemi is close, he’s almost there. He just needs that last push. “Say my name. Say who you want to fuck that little ass sore.”

“Ughhhhh Sanameiiiiii. Sanemi fuuuckk!” His voice is loud, uncontrolled. Coming as he yells Sanemi’s name. And he's coming. Coming the hardest he can remember in his life as his name rings across the line. 

Then there's silence. No other words. Just hard breathing. He's not sure what to do. He called for one thing and now he’s here, just finished jacking off over the phone with Giyuu fucking Tomioka. He’s just had phone sex with Giyuu. Someone he works with. Someone he doesn't know much about. Fuck.

His panicking stops at Giyuu clearing his throat. “Well…that escalated quickly.” He chuckles. Sanemi responds with a chuckle of his own. Glad that this isn't as serious as he was taking it.

“Um, just so you know,” Giyuu starts again. "I don't do this with people. What I mean is, I don't do this with just anyone. Just with the person that I…that I like. And no pressure if you don't feel the same, but I like you, Sanemi. And if this is something you want to, like, pursue, then let me know. Cause I would.”

Sanemi lies in silence. Taking in every word that Giyuu has said. He likes him. Giyuu actually likes him. He knows he should say something. He's trying to get past the ball in his throat.

“Anyway. Your brother is going to be fine. It sounds like he has a good head on his shoulders. But if you need anything else, let me know. Good night Shinazugawa” and he hangs up. Before Sanemi can say the words on the tip of his lips. “I like you too.”

It’s been a couple of weeks since the ‘watermelon incident’ as Genya calls it. They continued their studying sessions at Muichiro’s house up until this day. Genya wanted to give Muichiro’s mom a break and decided they would go to his house. It’s not far from Muichiro’s, and Sanemi would be at work, so there would be no distractions. Genya appreciates Mrs. Tokito, but the woman hadn’t stopped barging in on their studying sessions since that day. Causing him and Muichiro to always be in a state of anxiety.

So here they sat, in the living room of his and Sanemi’s small first floor apartment. The place is tiny, but it was enough for them. 

Muichiro likes it. He likes being in Genya’s space. He could tell instantly how much more relaxed the boy was and it comforted him knowing they both felt safe to share their spaces with each other. He also noticed how much he appreciates the quiet. Their comfortable silences. He enjoys the fact that they can sit there with one another and say nothing but still be in sync. He hasn’t been or felt like that since…His thoughts become distracted as he notices a bass and electric guitar on the far side of the room against the wall lined with posters.

“What’s that?” he utters, pointing to the corner of the room. Genya lifts his head from his workbook looking around until he notices what Muichiro is pointing at. He smiles lightly. “Oh, my guitars?” 

Muichiro nods. “You play instruments?”

Genya chuckles, “Yeah. I’m in a band with-” Muichiro’s response is immediate, "YOU'RE IN A BAND?!” Muichiro looks at him, flabbergasted. Eyes big, mouth slightly agape. 

Genya cheeks blush, his shy habits kicking in. Right hand going up to rub the buzzed side of his head. Leg bouncing. “Yeah, didn’t you know? I could’ve sworn I’ve mentioned it. I know Tanjiro and I talk about it when we are all together. It’s not a secret or anything.”

Muichiro starts to blush. The thought of Genya playing a guitar…his fingers moving across and plucking the strings. His hands running up and down the neck of the guitar…he gulps, feeling the heat of his body rise as it does so often now with Genya. He doesn’t register Genya standing and walking across the room to the two guitars, grabbing the bass off its stand and walking back to the sofa, sitting on Muichiro’s right. He places the bass loosely on his lap, forgoing the strap. He looks at Muichiro.

“Want to play it?” His eyes were bright, his smile wide. Muichiro flushes even more. So cute.

“I don’t know how. I’ve never played an instrument before.” Muichiro spoke truthfully. The only instrument he ever played was recorder in grade two which he was absolutely terrible at. 

Genya chuckles again, “It’s easy. I’ll show you.” Without waiting for an answer, Genya shuffles closer to where Muichiro sits. Closing the distance so they are touching from shoulder to knee. He moves the bass onto Muichiro’s lap and brings his left arm around, grabbing Muichiro’s left hand and placing it on the neck and fingers on the fret board. Keeping his hand on Muichiro’s to keep the bass stable in his hands. He pulls Muichiro’s right hand from his lap and onto the body of the bass. Genya shuffles a bit more until he’s comfortable and then looks at Muichiro. 

“Comfy?” He smiles crookedly. Then looks back at the bass.

“Okay so. What’s great about a bass is…..”

Muichiro watches as Genya strums the bass lightly, continuing to speak. He’s warm. Really warm. It’s like Genya just radiates heat. Muichiro can feel Genya’s breath hitting his face and hair as he speaks. His breath smells like mint. Like he was chewing gum before. Muichiro can’t stop looking at him. His face is so close. If he wanted to, he could just tilt his head up and his lips could reach Genya’s cheek so easily. Should he? He wants to. Would Genya be okay with that? Maybe Genya wouldn’t want to. Not with him maybe. 

Insecurity rears its head into Muichiro’s thoughts. Despite all the shared moments they have had, the memory of Senjuro seeking Genya out trying to get his number with him standing right next to him bothers him. Muichiro isn’t anything to Genya. Just a friend and nothing more. At the thought, Muichiro lowers his head, eyes falling back to the bass in his lap as Genya’s fingers strum lightly, playing some deep melody. It’s rich. He can feel the vibrations in his chest. Just like how he feels when he hears Genya’s laugh. Sees his smile. When Genya just looks at him. He feels it there. Deep where no one else can reach. This isn't just a crush anymore.

Muichiro hears Genya’s voice speaking to him, “…want to try playing that chord?” Muichiro looks up. Eyes unfocused, face vacant. “Hmm?”

Genya stills, then laughs nervously. Loosening up his hold on Muichiro. And then slowly pulling the guitar from his lap and back onto his own. “Sorry. I’m sure that was boring. I didn’t even ask if you wanted to. We can get back to work. Let me just….” Genya’s nerves hit. He stands quickly, wanting to move away from the situation as fast as possible.

Muichiro’s eyes go wide, not realizing his silence was taken as disinterest. He speaks quickly, hand reaching out towards Genya. “Wait…I want to try. I just got overwhelmed, sorry.” Muichiro lowers his head. Surprised at how quickly the mood changed.

Genya shuffles nervously in place. “Oh. Uh…are you sure? I mean I know we’re supposed to be studying.” He chuckles nervously, “but we can take a break? I can play something for you if you want. If you want to, you don’t have to, I know that sounds kind of lame, like who offers to play….”

Muichiro stops Genya’s rambling, answering, “I want to. I want to listen to you play…please?”

Muichiro shuffles in his seat a little and then pats the seat that Genya vacated. The seat right up against him. Had Genya really been that close? He had his arm around Muichiro. Their faces were so close, almost touching. How did he not notice? How uncomfortable he must have made him. No wonder he was overwhelmed. No wonder he didn’t speak during the whole interaction. Genya gulps, face flushing again. He walks slowly back to the sofa, but this time sitting a distance away. Giving Muichiro his space. He slings the strap over his head and settles the bass on his lap. He begins strumming lightly. No real melody in mind. Something simple. Something sweet he would say. He sits there deep in his thoughts hitting chords he can hit in his sleep from how often he plays them. He can’t believe he let himself get that close without asking Muichiro if it was okay. He got carried away. He knows he does when he’s around Muichiro. But he can’t help it sometimes. 

From the moment he saw him. He’s liked Muichiro. He always thought Muichiro was beautiful. Ethereal. How can someone so majestic be real? How did he get so lucky to be able to see this kind of beauty every day? It was always different with Muichiro. He knows he’s a romantic, but it seems even more so with Muichiro. A soft-boy as Inosuke likes to call him. But he can’t help it. Muichiro’s funny. Easy to talk to. He appreciates their comfortable silences, and he loves how comfortable Muichiro is with him. Always reaching for him or seeking him out. He doesn’t know if Muichiro is aware of his own actions. How when they’re together, he slowly gravitates closer to Genya. How when they have lunch when they’re studying, Muichiro doesn’t just offer Genya food, but FEEDS him. Always lifting his food and offering the first bite to Genya. How he always texts Genya at night to tell him goodnight before sleep. It was a silly habit that developed after having their first project together and it just never ended….and he’s glad it never did. He has deep feelings for his friend. And now Genya doesn’t know how he feels about that. What if he doesn't feel the same way?

A sad melody begins to emanate from the bass guitar, spreading around the room. Muichiro isn’t sure what happened, but he knows something has changed. He knows he did something wrong. Genya doesn’t look at him as he plays. Muichiro has a knot in the pit of his stomach. One so tight that he can’t help but want to cry. He can't do this. Whatever happened he wants to fix it. He reaches out, placing his smaller hand on the hand plucking the guitar strings. Genya still doesn't look at him. 

“Genya, I'm sorry.” Genya's brows scrunch in confusion, finally looking at the smaller boy to his left. “For what?” He loosens his hold on his bass, moving to remove it and placing it beside him, his attention fully on Muichiro.

“I know I did something that changed the mood. I don't want you to think that I'm not interested in your guitar and your playing. Learning about the things you love is important to me. A thought popped into my head that made me feel upset and I didn't realize that it made you think I was upset with you. I'm not. I love being with you Genya. I'm sorry.” Muichiro moves his hand to Genya's thigh, rubbing his thumb gently. 

Genya shuffles closer, up against Muichiro again. “Mui, no. You don't have to apologize for anything. You didn't do anything I promise. I saw your face change, you looked upset. I don't like knowing you're sad or upset. Please, tell me what's wrong.” He grabs the boy’s hands, placing them on his lap. A hand moving to Muichiro's chin, pulling his face up to look at him. Muichiro has tears in his eyes. Genya is panicking. 

“Genya…do you like Rengoku?” Muichiro's voice breaks as he speaks. Genya's eyes widen at the question. Not understanding where the question is coming from but wanting to soothe the thoughts of the boy next to him, he answers quickly, chuckling lightly. “Mui…Mui no. Of course not. Absolutely positively no.” both hands move to Muichiro’s cheeks, wiping gently at the tears now running down his face. He brings their foreheads together, touching lightly but grounding each other. “Mui, I never want you to think there is anyone else that I like other than you. Muichiro…” he pulls back, looking Muichiro in the eyes, looking at his flushed tear stain face. So beautiful. “Muichiro, I like you. I've liked you from the moment I saw you in the hall. And I haven't stopped. It's gotten deeper. I don't want to be just your friend anymore. I like you Muichiro.”  He keeps them close. Hoping that Muichiro is taking everything in and responds to his admission.

Muichiro's tears become heavier. His hands grabbing Genya's wrists. He sees the look on Genya's face start to fall at his continued sobs. But he smiles. He finally smiles, pulling their heads together again. Laughing as he finally speaks. “Genya. Oh Genya, my Genya.” He moves, pulling Genya to him, arms wrapping around his neck bringing him into a tight hug. Feeling the strong arms of the other wrap around his waist. “God Genya. I've been wanting to tell you for so long. I like you so much. Since the moment I saw you too, you big tree. I just want to be with you.” They pull back slightly, facing each other again. Laughing together at Muichiro's nickname for Genya. 

Their laughter dies, the moment becoming quiet, heavy. Genya brings their faces together, his hand running up and down Muichiro's back, soothing. He tilts his head slightly, their faces impossibly close, so close their lips could…

“Mui…can I?” Muichiro's nod is swift. No hesitation. They meet. Finally. Their lips finally meeting in a soft kiss. Both boys unskilled, both their first. But no less sweet.

Genya's hands stay planted firmly on Muichiro's back, afraid to move, to break the moment he's been waiting for. It's amazing. His lips are soft, plump, and taste so sweet. Like the sweet fruit they had been eating. He breathes into it, not realizing that he was holding his breath. He feels Muichiro's hands move, coming to land on his cheeks, holding him. Then he feels his lips move, pulling them away before landing on his again deepening the kiss. Genya moans into it. Tilting his head even more to get a better angle. Wanting to have them flushed against his. His hand travels up Muichiro’s back to the nape of his neck, securing his head. He pulls his lips away from Muichiro’s but quickly finding their way to the boy's jaw, laying gentle kisses.

Muichiro gasps at the action. He thought the kiss was already amazing. Feeling absolute bliss. But the kisses to his jaw, he was feeling something even more. Chills running up and down his arms. His head falls back, letting it relax and be held in Genya's large hand. His hand goes to Genya’s mohawk, fingers gripping the locks tight, pulling lightly, getting another groan from the bigger boy. The sound sending a jolt down his spine. Genya looks at him, eyes blown to hell. Black. His eyes are black and looking fierce, face flushed. He looks absolutely predatory. “Genya…” he whimpers before Genya pulls his lips to his own, crashing together. The kiss is desperate. Feral. Demanding. 

Genya can't stop. Doesn't want to stop. But he knows he should. His hold is tight, gripping Muichiro so close. He needs to let go. He doesn't want to push him, make him regret this because he pushed too far. So he moves. His lips pulling back, breath coming out in deep pants, forcing his head to fall onto Muichiro’s shoulder. He can hear a whimper from the smaller boy as he pulls away. But his breathing is labored. Trying to gulp in air. He holds Genya's head tight, close to his chest. Genya just wants to bury himself deep in his arms and never leave. He feels whole. Like this was always meant to be. His hands wrap around Muichiro's waist again, snuggling into his warmth. He's already on fire, but doesn't mind turning to ash in Muichiro's embrace. He nuzzles into him. He's happy.

Muichiro giggles at the boy in his grasp. His chin laying gently on his head. It feels so good to finally be able to hold him. To touch him. To kiss him. He feels like he has been holding back for so long and now there's nothing stopping him and he never plans on letting go. He was scared. Scared that Genya wasn't going to return his feelings. That he wanted someone else. But they're here, in each other's embrace, both feeling the same. Genya's lips are soft but strong, his jaw firm, hands rough. God he is such a man. Seeing his eyes, so blown, so dark, filled with want…want for him, Muichiro couldn't stop even if he wanted to. He wants Genya. And now he has him in his arms. Solid and warm. 

“Mui…” Genya's voice is rough and deep, rumbling against Muichiro's chest. He hums as his response. Muichiro feels himself falling slowly back, being pushed lightly by the boy now on top of him. He lies flat on his back, Genya falling in between his legs, head placed against Muichiro's chest, still holding him tight.

“I just want to lay here with you forever. I don't want to move.” he hums again, his fingers combing through Genya's hair, rubbing his head and back. He wants this forever too. “Then don't move. We don't have to move. We can just stay here for a while.” 

Genya lifts his head, facing Muichiro who lies beneath him. “But it's late. It's almost nine. Don't you have to be home?” Genya lays a soft kiss on the boy's stomach. He watches Muichiro shake his head, eyes not opening. 

“My moms not home this weekend. It would just be me.” The smile on Muichiro's face falls, the thought of going home to an empty house making his chest ache. “I just want to be with you. Please don't make me leave.” His voice gets hoarse. A ball forming in his throat. He feels tears fall down the sides of his face.

Genya sees the tears fall. He shuffles quickly up the boy's body, now chest to chest. “You’re staying here with me. You never have to be alone again Mui. You have me.” Muichiro's arms wrap around his neck, bringing him close, foreheads touching. He wipes the tears from Muichiro's face, fingers then finding their way into his long locks. He massages gently. Calming the boy down. 

“I have you. You're safe with me.”

Sanemi is at work. He's in the worst mood. Giyuu has been avoiding him. Not outright ignoring him, but if it wasn't work related, he stayed away.

Sanemi is stupid. Sanemi is a fucking asshole. After their hot as fuck phone sex, Sanemi didn’t call or text Giyuu back to tell him that he likes him too. That he's been wanting to get to know him more since he started almost two years ago. That he's been wanting to taste those lips the moment he saw them close up. That he also wants to treat him softly. Like he deserves. 

But Sanemi’s an idiot. He didn't make contact with Giyuu until three days later. A casual text about sharing the information he provided him to Genya. He never responded. He's reached out multiple times since that day. Even called a few times, sent straight to voicemail.

He's given up at this point. It's been almost two weeks. He's tired of being avoided. He even texted Giyuu that very night to talk, saw him look at his phone during break and was left on read. Sanemi was losing his patience. He was already told off once by Gyomei about his attitude that night before he was finally dismissed from work. Telling him to go home and cool down and to come back tomorrow. So now he sits in his car in the restaurant parking lot, deflated, and self hate building inside of him. He hasn't felt this type of way since leaving home four years ago. He tries to control his breathing. His breath coming out too fast, too heated. He was losing control and he couldn't have that. He was better than that. Had to be better than that. For himself. For Genya. He closes his eyes, head resting back against the headrest. 

“In…out…in…out…” he whispers as he continues breathing, feeling his body finally relax. If he could just fall asleep here he would but he's suddenly jolted, a soft knock on his front passenger window. Giyuu. Giyuu’s there, huddled in his jacket. Sanemi’s hands, loosely gripping the steering wheel, instantly tighten. Instantly irritated again. He reaches over, grabbing the handle on his car window, rolling it down slightly. 

“What do you want, Tomioka.” He knows resorting back to last names is petty, childish. But Giyuu did it first. So he tells himself he's just going with what Giyuu started. But he sees the hurt in Giyuu's eyes at the formality. But he refuses to feel sorry about it anymore. He tried reaching out multiple times to fix what this was. He's over it.

“I was hoping we could talk.”

“About what? I have nothing to talk about with you.” He refuses to look at him. He knows if he does, he’ll break.

“Sanemi please…I'm sorry. I just…I was hurt. I don't handle feelings really well. Please? Just…hear me out. You won’t have to deal with me again after this.” Sanemi lets out a groan, that's not what he wants. He wants to ‘deal’ with him, always. He just doesn't know how to say it. He reaches over again, unlocking the passenger door. Giyuu opens the door quickly, sliding into the seat and closing the door shut. He shivers, wrapping his arms around himself to keep warm. Sanemi turns the car on, increasing the heat, turning all vents to Giyuu to warm up. Giyuu watches him, a small smile pulling at his lips. “Thank you. Sorry, I get cold easily.” 

Sanemi watches Giyuu move his hands to the heating vents, taking in any warmth they release. “Sorry it takes a bit. My car’s really old. Sorry.” Sanemi is embarrassed. Sure that Giyuu is thinking what a ‘poor loser’ he is, changing his mind about liking him. 

“It's better than my car. It's sitting in the lot of my adopted fathers house in the mountains. It worked for one summer and then that was it. So it's just trains or walking home for me.” he laughs lightly. 

He watches Giyuu, his small smile, huddled around the vents in his car. Sanemi then leans to his side, over the center console to his backseat, he pulls back with a blanket. Unbundling it and laying it over Giyuu's lap. “Sometimes I don't have time to sleep between work, home, and school, so napping in my car whenever I can is a thing for me.” Giyuu finally looks at him. Eyes soft. He's never seen Giyuu like this. Ever. Not with anyone at work. Sanemi slumps into his seat looking away and down at his hands.

“Sanemi.” 

Sanemi can't look up. He knows he's at fault for what happened between them. He has a hard time apologizing for things. This is no different. But he tries to in his own ways. But this is his first misunderstanding with Giyuu. Giyuu doesn't know Sanemi's temperament, doesn't know his love language, doesn't know his ways of apologizing. So he has to be upfront. Despite how uncomfortable it might make him.

A soft hand, fingers long and delicate, find their way to his arm, grasping softly. He slowly looks up, eyes finally landing on sapphire. 

“Your eyes are beautiful.” The words come out before he can stop them. Didn't want to even try. “Giyuu, I'm sorry. What happened the other week caught me by surprise. I don't want you to think I’m…ashamed or regret what happened. I don't. Experiencing that with you was amazing, you're amazing. I was just surprised when you said you liked me. No one likes me. I think some like the idea of me. Hard ass, tough looking bad boy or whatever. But whenever anyone gets to know me, they leave. And it's just something I'm used to. I've liked you for a long time. I always thought it was one sided. Never in a million years did I think you would actually like me too. I'm sorry I didn't say anything. I was going to but I didn't in time. And I was too chicken shit to call or text you back. And when I finally did, it wasn't even to apologize. I'm just so sorry for how I made you feel.” Sanemi stops, eyes not moving from Giyuu’s. Wanting him to understand how sincere he was.That this wasn't a joke. This was real.

He watches him, Giyuu’s eyes are soft, his face flushed. Not sure if it's from the cold. He reaches over with his free arm, pulling the blanket further up Giyuu’s form. Giyuu stops his movements. 

“Sanemi.” The arm on Sanemi moves slowly, up his arm, over his neck, resting on his cheek. His thumb rubbing circles lightly, warming him. He leans into it. Loving the touch instantly. His arm moves from the blanket, pulling Giyuu forward. He grunts, letting Giyuu know that he’s listening as he continues pulling them together, faces getting close.

“Sanemi, I like you. If you like me, I would like to see more of you. If that's okay?” Their noses bump, foreheads now resting on one another. 

Sanemi lets out a sigh. “This feels so good.” he mutters, pulling the hand on his face away, kissing the palm lightly. 

Giyuu moans at the action. “You’re secretly a soft boy aren't you Sanemi Shinazugawa?” The smile returns to Giyuu’s lips. 

Sanemi’s lips travel down to Giyuu’s wrist before turning his face back to the man in front of him. “Just for you, I think.” 

They kiss. It's tender, it's sweet, everything that Sanemi was hoping for. He isn't just mean and abrasive all the time. He can be sweet and caring too. Their lips continue, keeping each other close, neither wanting to lose contact. 

The slamming of a car door brings them back to their surroundings. They're in the parking lot of their work. Anyone can see. “Don’t you have to go back in? Your break is over isn't it?” Sanemi whispers, laying one final gentle kiss before pulling back, pulling Giyuu’s hands into his own lap.

Giyuu shakes his head, "I'm off. I was heading to the bus stop when I saw you. I also wanted to make sure you were okay before leaving.” Giyuu hums pleasantly as Sanemi places his head in the crook of his neck. Both enjoying each other's presence. 

“Mmmm. I'll take you home.” He doesn't see Giyuu’s eyes widen, shocked at the gesture. “No, it's okay. My place is in the opposite direction of yours I believe. It's not that far of a ride on the bus I swear. It should be arriving soon.” Sanemi shakes his head. Not looking up before muttering. “Do you have class tomorrow?” Giyuu nods into Sanemi's shoulder, shivering into him. “Then stay with me tonight. I'll take you to class. It's okay.” Sanemi looks up and into Giyuu’s eyes. They're glassy, tear filled but not ready to drop. Giyuu nods vehemently, quickly burying his face in Sanemi’s shoulder. “Okay.” They drive silently to his small apartment, hands never leaving each other. 

It's late when they arrive. Past midnight. They park, Sanemi shuffling around the car, making sure to open the door for Giyuu. Placing the blanket back in the backseat before closing the door. Giyuu waits for him, hand held out, waiting for his. He grabs hold, leading them to the front door.

Genya should be asleep, so he’s quiet, shushing Giyuu lightly when they walk in. removing their shoes before walking into the hall.

“Would you like something to drink?” Giyuu nods. “Water please.” Sanemi walks away, leaving Giyuu for a moment. He grabs two bottles of water, and some ohagi he bought the other day. When he walks back, Giyuu's eyes are distracted, something capturing his attention. “What?” Giyuu brings a finger to his lips, signaling to stay quiet before pointing into the living room. Sanemi stares at the sight in front of him. Genya and the boy he assumes is his boyfriend lie asleep. Genya on top of the other. He shakes his head. “Idiot” he whispers. He hands Giyuu their snack and drinks, before walking into the living room, pulling a blanket from another seat and laying it over the two boys.

He walks back, taking the items and Giyuu’s hand in his. Leading them to his room. Ready to settle in for the night.